A significant traffic disruption occurred on Bengaluru's Old Airport Road after vehicles were allegedly halted for nearly 30 minutes to facilitate the movement of the Governor's convoy, according to a post on social media platform X. The incident, compounded by ongoing underpass construction, left hundreds of commuters stranded in severe congestion.
Protest Highlights Public Anger
Public frustration intensified when a man traveling with his pregnant wife became trapped in the gridlock. In a desperate act of protest against VIP culture, he sat down in the middle of the road, arguing with traffic police. Other motorists also criticized the authorities for prioritizing VIP movement over public convenience, questioning the handling of traffic restrictions during such sensitive times.
Viral Video Sparks Inquiry
A video posted by an X account named @Prajvalprince around 12:13 pm showed the man sitting on a zebra crossing near ISRO Junction, disputing with police. He claimed his wife was pregnant and that his vehicle had been stopped at a signal even though the Governor had not yet left HAL Airport. After an argument and intervention by Hoysala police, the man eventually cleared the way for the convoy. The video does not specify the destination, but unconfirmed reports suggest he was heading to a hospital with no alternative routes available.
Police Response and Investigation
In response to the viral video, the traffic police have initiated an inquiry. A senior officer stated, “An inquiry has been ordered into the allegations. An Assistant Commissioner of Police is investigating the incident, which occurred on Sunday afternoon under the Jeevan Bhima Nagar Traffic Police Station jurisdiction. We are verifying CCTV footage from HAL Airport to the protest location. If vehicles were indeed stopped for 30 minutes, necessary action will be taken.” However, police maintained that a 30-minute halt is unlikely.
Renewed Debate on VIP Culture
The incident has reignited debates over VIP culture and the inconvenience caused to ordinary citizens in the name of security arrangements. Commuters questioned whether dignitaries' safety should come at the expense of public welfare, particularly in emergencies involving patients and pregnant women. Residents and motorists criticized the authorities for imposing restrictions on a stretch already narrowed by underpass construction without ensuring adequate alternative traffic arrangements. Many expressed anger on social media, accusing traffic police of failing to balance security needs with public requirements.
The Governor's office was unavailable for comment when contacted. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between VIP protocols and everyday commuter needs in Bengaluru's congested roads.
