Why Was a K’taka State Transport Driver Suspended for Performing Namaz?

Synopsis
In Karnataka, a state bus driver was suspended for stopping his vehicle during duty hours to perform namaz. This incident has stirred considerable debate about workplace regulations and personal beliefs. As the story unfolds, public reactions are mixed, highlighting the challenges of balancing duty and personal faith in a diverse society.
Key Takeaways
- Driver suspended for stopping bus to perform namaz.
- Violation of service rules led to immediate action.
- Public and media reaction has been mixed.
- The incident highlights the tension between personal beliefs and workplace duties.
- Suspended driver will receive half salary during this period.
Bengaluru, May 1 (NationPress) The Congress-led administration in Karnataka has taken decisive action by suspending a bus driver from the state road transport corporation for halting the vehicle to perform namaz during work hours. The suspension was enacted by the North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), Haveri Division, under the directive of the Haveri Divisional Controller.
A.R. Mulla, a driver associated with the Hangal Unit, has been suspended for breaching the code of conduct and discipline as specified by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
The documented order indicated that the inquiry into this matter revealed that Mulla violated service regulations, recommending his suspension due to concerns that his ongoing presence might disrupt the investigation.
The suspension notice stated: “You (Mulla) were assigned on April 28 to operate an RTC bus service between Hangal and Vishalgarh. While returning from Vishalgarh to Hangal on April 29, at approximately 5:30 p.m., it was reported that you had parked the bus on the left side of the road on the outskirts of Hubballi city and conducted namaz in the passenger seat.”
“You have shown negligence in your duties while performing public service and in front of passengers. Your actions have also caused negative publicity for the organization, as the event has been heavily discussed across social and mainstream media,” the order elaborated.
This suspension is effective immediately. During the suspension period, Mulla will receive half of his salary, in accordance with KSRTC regulations.
The incident involving Mulla stopping the RTC bus mid-journey to perform namaz was reported on Wednesday from Haveri district in Karnataka.
A video capturing the event has gone viral, prompting discussions among the public regarding the actions of RTC authorities.
One passenger recorded the incident and shared it on social media, where it gained significant attention.
Following this, Hindu activists have called for action against the RTC driver for performing namaz after stopping the bus during work hours.