A farmer in Bengaluru was denied access recently to the Namma Metro due to security personnel deeming his attire “inappropriate” for travel. The incident, which sparked outrage on social media, led to the dismissal of a security supervisor.
Despite having a valid ticket, the farmer, dressed in a white shirt and carrying clothes on his head, was halted at the security checkpoint in Rajajinagar metro station.
In a viral video, the farmer, who spoke Hindi, stood near the luggage scanner as another commuter, Karthik C. Airani, questioned the staff’s decision. Airani and another individual argued that the farmer posed no security threat as he was only transporting clothes, not violating Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) rules. Subsequently, the farmer was permitted to board the metro.
The security supervisor faced consequences for the incident. The BMRCL expressed regret for the inconvenience caused, affirming Namma Metro’s commitment to inclusivity in transportation. “Namma Metro is an inclusive public transport. The Rajajinagar incident was investigated and the services of the security supervisor have been terminated. BMRCL regrets the inconvenience caused to the passenger,” it said in a post on X on Monday.
The incident elicited sharp reactions from citizens. “UNBELIEVABLE..! Is metro only for VIPs? Is there a dress code to use Metro?,” asked one social media user.
“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,” said Deepak N on X.
“Really this is a modern day apartheid practiced in Metro. The metro should issue guidelines for security persons so that this will not be repeated again,” said Kumar.
“These security guys are untrained and think metro as aeroplane. Misbehaviour has become daily thing with them. One security was denying me to enter for carrying 100 gms chutney pudi,” complained Sangamesh.
