NHRC Issues Notices To Bengaluru Metro, Karnataka Govt Secretary After Entry Denied To A Farmer In Namma Metro

Namma Metro: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday took cognizance of the recent Bengaluru metro incident, where a farmer was denied entry just because his clothes were untidy. According to the reports, the saddening incident took place at Bengaluru's Rajajinagar station and it came to light after a video went viral online.

The NHRC has observed that the contents of the media report, if true, is a violation of human rights as no person can be denied access to public transport based on the nature of the clothes he or she is wearing.

Only if someone possesses any objectionable material, could be stopped as per the law, NHRC said.

Following the Bengaluru metro incident, NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka and the Managing Director, Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), calling for a detailed report within four weeks. It should also include the steps taken/ proposed to be taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

According to a media report dated February 27, 2024, a farmer was captured on video standing at the bag checking point of a metro station with a sack of goods on his head.

Upon being stopped by an official, a fellow passenger intervened, questioning the necessity of a dress code for metro passengers or whether the metro was exclusively reserved for VIPs. This confrontation was recorded and subsequently shared on social media.

"UNBELIEVABLE..! Is metro only for VIPs? Is there a dress code to use Metro? I appreciate actions of Karthik C Airani, who fought for the right of a farmer at Rajajinagar metro station. We need more such heroes everywhere. @OfficialBMRCL train your officials properly," said a social media user expressing anguish over the shameful incident.