IAF Officer's Road Rage Incident Provokes Sentiments of Kannada Speakers, Says CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru, April 22 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Tuesday that the IAF officer involved in a road rage incident in the capital has been inciting the pride and feelings of Kannada-speaking individuals.

The road rage episode on Monday featured Indian Air Force Wing Commander and a biker, who works at a call center.

In a press release on Tuesday, CM Siddaramaiah remarked, “Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose, who physically assaulted Kannadiga Vikas Kumar over a minor vehicle incident in Bengaluru’s CV Raman Nagar, has taken to social media to make unfounded allegations against Karnataka and its people, thereby provoking the pride and sentiments of Kannada speakers.”

The Chief Minister further expressed that while Kannadigas cherish their mother tongue, they do not exhibit arrogance. It is not typical for Kannadigas to resort to physical confrontation or insults over language disputes without justification. Karnataka is known for its rich tradition of honoring everyone who settles here, regardless of their origin, and embracing them as part of the Kannada community. The history of the state reflects this inclusive ethos.

“It is truly unfortunate that some national media organizations, overlooking their duties and ethical standards, have taken one individual’s unverified allegations to tarnish the reputation of the entire state of Karnataka. This has significantly hurt the feelings of every Kannadiga,” the CM added.

“Kannadigas should not respond to provocation or agitation by taking the law into their own hands. The Government of Karnataka, elected by the people, is here to guarantee justice. Regarding the incident on April 21, I have instructed the Police Commissioner to pursue legal action against those responsible, irrespective of their rank or position. The state government is approaching this matter with the utmost seriousness and is dedicated to ensuring justice for the aggrieved party,” he emphasized.

Earlier, Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose released a video on Monday, where he claimed that a distressing incident occurred as he was rushing to catch a flight to Kolkata. “My father required hospitalization for surgery. My wife Madhumita was driving me around 6:30 am on Monday to drop me off at the bus stop,” he explained.

“Suddenly, a bike appeared from the right and halted in front of our car. I will also share the dash cam footage. The biker parked his bike, stood in front of our car wearing a helmet, holding his keys, and began making remarks in Kannada about ‘you DRDO people’. When he noticed my wife was driving, he approached my side and initiated an argument,” the officer recounted.

“What astonished me was that local residents -- Kannada-speaking seniors -- were observing. Some advised the biker that he was in the wrong and should leave. However, many locals sided with him. They even grabbed my hand. The biker bit me,” alleged the Wing Commander.

“This is outrageous. I am stronger and more powerful; I could have retaliated. He seemed prepared -- with keys in hand and wearing a helmet -- clearly aiming to escalate the situation. I am deeply concerned for my wife and child who remain in Bengaluru,” the Wing Commander asserted.

“This occurred in the city center, in the DRDO area. I trust that the authorities will take action. I have noted the vehicle number. I have lost many things, but my primary concern is the safety of my wife and child, who are alone in Bengaluru,” he concluded.