BENGALURU: The behaviour of BMTC crew has once again come to the forefront with the latest incident where a woman alleged she jumped out of a moving bus to escape sexual harassment from the bus driver and conductor. The driver and the conductor have been booked, but police are yet to trace the woman who posted the incident on a social networking site.
The duo denied they misbehaved during a departmental inquiry conducted by BMTC.
Women passengers have repeatedly called for intervention by BMTC with gender sensitivity training. BMTC, however, argues that action is initiated depending on the seriousness of complaints. In certain cases, crew members are sent for training programmes.
Priya Chetty Rajagopal, a women’s activist and executive director - Leadership and Board Practice, RGF Executive Search India, said, “It is good to know that police take suo motu action in such incidents. In fact, more people are coming out to share their stories. At least now there is less shame associated with talking about such incidents. A lot of people ask why so much needs to be talked about the molestation incidents in Bengaluru. They do not want to hear it because it makes them uncomfortable. However, the fact remains that until we talk about it, we can’t solve these issues.”
She added, “In every place, there will be a few rotten apples and BMTC is no exception. The problem with BMTC buses is that the victim is trapped in an enclosed place. BMTC has to take substantial steps to change the mindset of conductors and drivers who come from various backgrounds. This has to be followed with proper training sessions. We also have take into account work pressure and frustrations that these employees bear. Maybe BMTC needs to increase its resources and distribute the work load.”
Saranya S Hegde, president of Mahila Dakshata Samithi, an NGO that works with women, said, “Even after the public outcry, such incidents continue to happen. This is because in none of these cases, have the criminals been condemned with strict punishment. Unless an example is set, there will be no deterrence. There is no fear in the minds of people.”
Vinay Srinivas, a member of Bangalore Bus Prayanikara Vedike (BBPV), said, “There is a women’s safety commission constituted in BMTC to look into sexual harassment. However, there is no awareness among public about its function or its powers. I had advised BMTC to create awareness through hoardings and posters at BMTC bus stands and in buses but it was ignored.” BBPV is a forum that addresses sexual harassment on BMTC buses.
The setting up of a grievance redressal system in BMTC has received good response with its call centre receiving several complaints. Misbehaviour by crew is one of the most common complaints.
A BMTC official said, “Crew members are given a warning and in some cases, their route or depot is changed. Recently, a conductor of a Vayu Vajru bus was moved to an ordinary bus. In case of disciplinary actions, penalty will be imposed, suspension or dismissal order will also be issued.”