Karnataka Road Rage Incident: DK Shivakumar Guarantees Justice for Biker

Synopsis
On April 23, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar assured local biker Vikas Kumar of justice regarding a road rage case involving an Indian Air Force officer. The incident has raised significant concerns over respect for local language and culture.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's government is committed to standing by Kannadigas.
- Shivakumar has communicated directly with Vikas Kumar.
- The IAF promises full cooperation in the investigation.
- Video evidence has raised questions about the initial narrative.
- Legal actions are being taken against the IAF officer involved.
Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar reached out to Vikas Kumar, the local biker involved in the road rage incident with an IAF Wing Commander, assuring him of fair treatment.
In a post on the social media platform X, Shivakumar expressed, "I contacted and comforted Vikas Kumar, the Kannadiga who faced assault during the Nagavarpalya incident. If Kannadigas are in distress, the Karnataka government will support them; we are dedicated to making sure that justice is served against the perpetrators."
A statement from the Deputy Chief Minister's office mentioned, "Shivakumar provided words of support to Kumar, assuring him that justice would prevail and that he should not be afraid."
The road rage altercation involved IAF Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose and Vikas Kumar, who works at a call center.
Kumar faced arrest after Bose shared a video on social media alleging that he was attacked for not speaking Kannada.
However, subsequent CCTV footage revealed Bose overpowering Kumar, striking him with punches, kicks, and slamming him.
After the footage came to light, Kumar was released on bail.
An FIR was lodged against the Wing Commander under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya 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).
The Indian Air Force (IAF), reacting to the incident involving the severe assault on a biker by an officer, termed the occurrence as "unfortunate" and promised to fully cooperate with local authorities during the investigation.
In an official statement, the IAF noted, "An unfortunate incident involving an IAF officer occurred in Bengaluru on April 21. The IAF is assisting local authorities in investigating and resolving the case legally."
Previously, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that the IAF officer involved in the road rage was disrespecting the pride and sentiments of Kannada speakers.
The case is officially registered at the Byappanahalli police station.