IAF Describes Incident Involving Wing Commander as Unfortunate; Will Support Investigation

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The IAF termed the incident involving a Wing Commander as unfortunate.
- Full cooperation with local authorities has been pledged by the IAF.
- Karnataka CM highlighted the need for justice and cautioned against public retaliation.
- The incident involved road rage between the Wing Commander and a biker.
- CCTV footage contradicted the Wing Commander’s claims.
Bengaluru, April 22 (NationPress) The Indian Air Force (IAF) has characterized the situation involving the assault of a biker by a Wing Commander as unfortunate and has committed to fully collaborating with local authorities in the ongoing investigation.
In an official statement issued on Tuesday, the IAF remarked, "An unfortunate incident, involving an IAF officer, occurred in Bengaluru yesterday (April 21). The IAF is aiding local authorities in investigating and following up on the case to ensure a lawful resolution."
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented on Tuesday that the IAF officer involved in the road rage incident was inciting the pride and sentiments of Kannada-speaking individuals.
The road rage event on Monday involved Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose of the Indian Air Force and a biker, identified as a call centre employee.
CM Siddaramaiah released a press statement on Tuesday, stating, "The Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose, who assaulted Vikas Kumar over a minor vehicle contact incident in Bengaluru's CV Raman Nagar, has now taken to social media to make unfounded allegations against Karnataka and Kannadigas, provoking the pride and sentiments of the Kannada-speaking community."
"Kannadigas should refrain from taking the law into their own hands in reaction to provocation or agitation. The Karnataka government, elected by the people of Karnataka, is in place to ensure justice. Regarding the incident on April 21, I have instructed the Police Commissioner to take appropriate legal action against those involved, regardless of their rank or designation. The state government is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and is committed to ensuring justice for the victim," the CM emphasized.
Earlier, Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose shared a video on Monday, explaining that an unfortunate incident transpired as he was en route to catch a flight to Kolkata on Tuesday morning.
"My father required hospitalization for surgery. My wife Madhumita was driving me around 6:30 a.m. on Monday to drop me off at the bus stop," he detailed.
"Suddenly, a bike approached from the right and stopped in front of our car. I will also share the dashcam video. The biker parked his bike, stood in front of our vehicle wearing a helmet, holding his keys, and began making comments in Kannada about 'you DRDO people.' When he noticed my wife driving, he came to my side and started arguing," the IAF officer recounted.
"What astonished me was that local people -- Kannada-speaking elders -- were observing. Some advised the biker that he was mistaken and should leave. However, many locals supported him. They even held my arm. That individual even bit me," the Wing Commander alleged.
"This is outrageous. I am stronger and more powerful; I could have reacted differently. He appeared prepared -- with keys in hand, wearing a helmet -- clearly wanting to escalate the situation. I dread to think what could have happened if my wife had been alone. I'm extremely concerned now because my wife and child are still alone in Bengaluru," he expressed.
"This incident occurred in the heart of the city, in the DRDO area. I trust that the authorities will take appropriate action. I have the vehicle number. I lost many things. However, my primary concern is for my wife and child, who are alone in Bengaluru," he stated.
The Bengaluru Police filed an FIR against an IAF officer on Tuesday in connection with the road rage incident involving him and a biker.
The case has been registered under the jurisdiction of the Byappanahalli police station.
The FIR has been lodged against Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose.
Previously, the biker, Vikas Kumar, was arrested in relation to the incident.
The situation gained attention after Bose posted a video on social media, alleging he was attacked by a local youth for not speaking Kannada.
However, subsequent CCTV footage revealed Bose overpowering the biker, striking, kicking, and punching him.
Following the release of the video, Vikas Kumar was granted bail.
The FIR against the Wing Commander is filed under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita including 109 (attempt to murder), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), 304 (snatching forcefully), 324 (mischief), and 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace).