What Happened to the Driver Accused of 'Sexually Harassing' a Minor Girl in Bengaluru?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Public outcry can lead to swift action in cases of sexual harassment.
- The role of family support is crucial for victims.
- Authorities must ensure safety measures are in place on public transport.
- Education on consent and harassment is vital for all age groups.
- Continued investigation is necessary to ensure justice is served.
Bengaluru, Sep 11 (NationPress) A bus driver was stripped and beaten for allegedly sexually harassing a minor girl during her journey from the Basaveshwaranagar police station area in Bengaluru on Thursday, according to local authorities.
The suspect has been named as Arif.
As reported by the police, the incident took place on a sleeper bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru.
Upon arriving in Basaveshwaranagar, the girl's mother and brother pulled Arif off the bus, confronting him about the sexual harassment. Arif admitted to the offense, folded his hands in a gesture of apology, and pleaded for mercy.
Family members and onlookers at the scene assaulted him and tore his clothes.
Following the incident, police quickly arrived and took the accused into custody.
The victim's mother expressed her anguish to the media, stating, "My minor daughter had gone to Hyderabad to visit her elder sister. On Wednesday night, my elder daughter called to inform me that her sister had boarded the bus to Bengaluru. The driver committed horrific acts against my daughter on the bus. It’s impossible to convey the depth of our daughter’s suffering in words."
"I am uncertain about the police's next steps, but I will ensure he faces consequences," the mother declared.
According to police reports, a 15-year-old girl had requested the driver to recharge her mobile phone.
"When she asked for her phone back later, the accused, Arif, told her that he would return it only if she kissed him. He then repeatedly approached her seat, sexually harassing her," said the police.
Despite the girl's attempts to resist, the accused continued his harassment.
Eventually, the girl managed to contact her mother, informing her about the driver's misconduct during the bus ride, police confirmed.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation, and additional details regarding the incident are anticipated.