Sexual harassment? What sexual harassment?

Incidents of sexual harassment are a dime a dozen in Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses, but, surprisingly, the BMTC seems to be unaware of the extent of the problem.

The Bangalore Bus Prayanikara Vedike discovered this bitter truth recently during an interaction with a BMTC official.

Members of the Vedike on Thursday told reporters that when they brought up the issue of sexual harassment in buses and at bus stations during their meeting with the BMTC official earlier this month, the official feigned ignorance about the matter. 

“BMTC officials have still not grasped the gravity of the issue. They seem unaware of the extent of sexual harassment that occurs in buses and at bus stations every day nor are they aware that their own female conductors experience harassment,” said Vinay Srinivasa, who is part of the Vedike.

He added that the BMTC in response said there were procedures to deal with complaints of sexual harassment and that drivers and conductors are expected to take buses directly to police stations in case someone raises an alarm. “We pointed out that sexual harassment is a criminal offence and that this fact, as well as procedures to deal with complaints, should be effectively communicated to all staff and commuters. BMTC officials agreed to display warning messages inside buses and in bus stands and depots,” he added.

More buses needed
The Bangalore Bus Prayanikara Vedike also stressed the need for connecting all part of the city. “There are vast areas of Bangalore which the BMTC neglects callously. For instance DJ Halli is not serviced at all, while LB Shastri Nagar is barely serviced,” he said.