A family traveling with young children was brutally attacked in a road rage incident on the Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway near Maddur, leading to the arrest of three individuals. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, has sent shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Incident
The victims, a couple and their two children aged 5 and 7, were driving towards Bengaluru when their vehicle was allegedly forced to stop by a group of men in a car. According to police reports, the attackers accused the family of overtaking them in a dangerous manner. The argument quickly escalated into a physical assault.
The assailants, identified as Ravi, Kumar, and Mahesh, all residents of Maddur, allegedly broke the windows of the family's car and dragged the father out. They beat him with iron rods and fists while the mother and children screamed for help. The mother sustained minor injuries while trying to protect her husband.
Arrests and Legal Action
Maddur police responded to a distress call and reached the spot within minutes. The three suspects were apprehended based on descriptions provided by witnesses. They have been booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including attempt to murder, assault, and causing hurt. The police are investigating if the suspects have a prior criminal record.
According to a senior police officer, "The accused have been taken into custody, and a case has been registered. We are gathering evidence, including CCTV footage from nearby establishments, to build a strong case against them."
Victims' Condition
The father, who suffered the brunt of the attack, is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Doctors have reported multiple fractures but stated that his condition is stable. The children are said to be traumatized but physically unharmed. The family has been provided with counseling.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, who have demanded stricter policing on highways to prevent such occurrences. Many have taken to social media to express their anger and call for justice.
Broader Context
Road rage incidents have been on the rise in Karnataka, with the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway being a frequent hotspot. In 2024, the state recorded over 200 road rage cases, a 15% increase from the previous year, according to data from the Karnataka Police. Authorities have urged commuters to remain calm and report any aggressive behavior to the nearest police station.
The highway, which connects two major cities, sees heavy traffic, especially during weekends. The lack of adequate patrols has been cited as a contributing factor to the rise in such incidents. In response, the police have announced increased surveillance and the deployment of additional patrol vehicles along the stretch.
