NWKRTC driver stops bus to offer namaz in Karnataka

NWKRTC driver namaz

Images and videos of a driver of a North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) bus from Hangal depot stopping the vehicle on the Hangal-Vishalgad route to offer namaz, have been shared on social media.
Special Arrangement
| Video Credit:
The Hindu

A file photo of a North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) bus. The alleged incident took place on the Hangal-Vishalgad route.
| Photo Credit:
KIRAN BAKALE

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has instructed North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) to probe an allegation that a driver stopped the bus to offer namaz in Haveri district on April 30.

In a letter to the Managing Director of NWKRTC, Mr. Reddy ordered an inquiry to confirm the veracity of the allegation that a driver-cum-conductor stopped the bus to offer namaz in his seat. The alleged incident occurred on April 29. Images and videos of Nayaz Mulla, a driver from Hangal bus depot stopping the bus on the Hangal-Vishalgad route to offer namaz in his seat, had been shared on social media.

“Needless to say, staff on duty in government service must follow certain rules and regulations. Every person has the right to religious freedom. Those in public service can practice their religious rituals, but not when they are on duty. Stopping a bus packed with passengers in the middle of a journey is objectionable,” the Minister wrote. “Care should be taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.”