‘The law applies equally to all’ – Transport Minister forced off bus by conductor’s firm stance

Staff Reporter | July 14, Bengaluru: The very person who oversees the state’s entire transport system was made to disembark from a bus by a conductor for violating rules. The incident took place in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, and a video of the event has instantly gone viral.

State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy had boarded a standard Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus, accompanied by his security detail and a few associates.

After the bus departed, the conductor came around to check tickets. Upon noticing that the Minister and his companions lacked tickets, the conductor asked them to purchase some. The Minister’s side responded, “We are VIPs; we don’t need tickets.”

However, the conductor on duty stated clearly, “According to KSRTC rules, everyone boarding the bus must buy a ticket. There are no exemptions, even for a Minister.”

Following the conductor’s firm reply, an argument ensued between him and the Minister’s party. The conductor remained steadfast in his position. Ultimately, to uphold the rules and avoid inconveniencing other passengers, the Transport Minister had to disembark at the next stop.

It is rare for a government employee—in this case, a conductor—to stand up to an influential minister and enforce the rules. In Karnataka, there are no exemptions allowing MLAs, MPs, or Ministers to travel for free on KSRTC buses; tickets are mandatory for everyone.

As the video of the incident circulated on social media, the conductor was showered with praise for his courage. Many remarked, “This is true democracy.”

Following the incident, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy himself stated, “The conductor did his job correctly. The rules apply equally to everyone. I am proud that the employees of our department are so honest.”