Poorly dressed farmer barred from entering Metro, security supervisor fired

Bengaluru: In a startling incident at Rajajinagar Metro station last Saturday, a destitute farmer carrying a head load was refused entry onto a Namma Metro train by security personnel due to his shabby attire. The rejection, despite the man holding a valid ticket, triggered outrage among fellow passengers. 

The situation escalated as concerned travellers confronted the security staff, with one individual, identified as Karthik C Airani, vowing to accompany the farmer. The entire episode was captured on a mobile phone and shared on social media, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for action against the Metro authorities.

Shortly after the incident gained public attention, the Namma Metro authorities swiftly terminated the services of the security supervisor involved. The decision was announced within an hour of the report being broadcast on Public TV, showcasing the responsiveness of the Metro management to rectify the situation. 

The video footage circulated on social media platforms, particularly on X, with users expressing their dismay and criticism of the discriminatory actions taken by the security personnel.

Reacting to the incident, Namma Metro MD Maheshwaran assured a thorough investigation into the matter, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining an inclusive public transport system. 

Further, BMRCL also confirms that the passenger travelled in Namma metro from Rajajinagar to Majestic. Also, an internal committee is constituted for a detailed enquiry headed by Dy. Chief Security Officer. We again regret for the incident. FKI. @srivasrbmrccoi1

— ನಮ್ಮ ಮೆಟ್ರೋ (@OfficialBMRCL) February 26, 2024

Yashavanth Chavan, Chief PRO of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) strongly condemned the incident, describing it as inexcusable. He stated, “BMRCL will apologize to the farmer too. If it comes to our attention that he is travelling on the Metro, we will personally apologize to him.” The official X handle of Namma Metro posted an apology, acknowledging the incident as regrettable and assuring the public of the transportation system’s commitment to inclusivity.

In a bid to enhance commuter convenience, Namma Metro has introduced short-loop train services during morning peak hours between Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station, Majestic and Garudacharpalya Station starting from February 26. The new service aims to benefit passengers heading towards Trinity, Indiranagar, Bennniganahalli and KR Pura Metro stations. 

Trains in this section will be available every three minutes between 8.45 am and 10.20 am on all working days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and general holidays. 

Additionally, to accommodate early-morning arrivals in the city, Namma Metro is initiating the first train service from Nadaprabhu Kempegowda (Majestic) station in all directions at 5 am on all days of the week, except Sundays. These measures signify the ongoing efforts of Namma Metro to enhance its services and cater to the diverse needs of the commuting public.