A peaceful midnight exploration of Bengaluru's famous nightlife took a terrifying turn for a young professional early Sunday morning, following a violent altercation that began with an argument over the price of a single cigarette.
What Happened on Brigade Road?
The victim, identified as 22-year-old Mahammed Masood K, a resident of Doctor Layout in Naganathapura and a native of Huvinahadagali, Vijayanagara district, had gone to the Central Business District (CBD) to experience the city's after-dark scene. Around 1 AM, he approached a street vendor operating from a two-wheeler near St Patrick's Church at the Markham Road junction to buy a cigarette.
The situation escalated quickly when the vendor, Kishore Kumar, demanded Rs 35 for one cigarette. Masood objected to what he perceived as an inflated price, leading to a heated argument between the two.
The Assault and Forced Online Payment
According to the police complaint filed by Masood, the verbal spat soon turned physical. He accused the vendor of verbally abusing him and then assaulting him. During the scuffle, the vendor alleged that Masood had damaged his tea flask.
Kishore Kumar, along with some accomplices, then forced Masood to pay for the alleged damage. When Masood stated he did not have cash on him, the group compelled him to make an online payment of Rs 900. Even after extorting the money, the vendor reportedly created a scene and demanded more cash.
Injuries and Police Action
In a desperate attempt to stop the vendor from leaving, Masood held onto his two-wheeler. He was subsequently dragged for several metres, causing injuries to his legs, arms, stomach, lower back, and face. Following the traumatic incident, Masood went to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Based on his complaint, a case has been registered at the Ashok Nagar police station. The police have invoked sections of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 115 (Voluntarily causing hurt)
- Section 126 (Wrongful restraint)
- Section 352 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace)
A senior police officer confirmed that an investigation into the case is currently underway to apprehend the accused vendor and his associates.
