Overview

• On April 29, a KSRTC driver stopped a government-run bus mid-route on the Hubballi-Haveri highway to perform namaz, delaying passengers.
• A video of the incident, showing the driver praying inside the parked bus, went viral, sparking public criticism and official response.
• Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed an immediate inquiry and stressed that religious practices must not interfere with professional duties.
• The North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has suspended the driver, identified as Shafiulla Nadaf, pending the investigation's outcome.
• Authorities are reviewing video evidence, with a focus on balancing constitutional religious freedoms and public service responsibilities.