A disturbing incident of harassment on the Namma Metro has come to light after a female passenger reported being molested during her commute. The incident, which reportedly took place during peak hours, has prompted the Bengaluru City Police to step in and issue a strict warning to the accused, while the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) reviews its security protocols.
The Incident
According to the victim's report, she was traveling on the Green Line when a man allegedly behaved inappropriately and made unwanted physical contact. The woman immediately raised an alarm, catching the attention of fellow passengers and the metro security staff at the next station.
The security personnel at the station quickly detained the individual and handed him over to the local police. While the victim chose not to file a formal FIR initially, the police recorded the statement and issued a stern warning to the accused, documenting his details for future surveillance.
Police Action and 'Chennamma Squad' Deployment
In response to the rising concerns over digital voyeurism and physical harassment in the metro, Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh has announced that the specialized Chennamma Squad—a dedicated team of women police officers—will increase their frequency of patrols inside metro coaches.
- Increased Surveillance: Under the new "Celebrate Responsibly" campaign for 2026, the police are using AI-enabled CCTV cameras to identify repeat offenders.
- Emergency Measures: Commuters are reminded that every metro coach is equipped with an Emergency Talk-Back system that allows them to speak directly to the train operator.
BMRCL’s Response
A spokesperson for BMRCL stated that they have a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment. "The safety of our women commuters is our highest priority. We are coordinating with the police to ensure that anyone found misbehaving is not only penalized but also permanently banned from using the metro services."
What To Do If Harassed?
Bengaluru Police have urged women to use the following resources if they feel unsafe:
- SOS Feature: Use the KSP (Karnataka State Police) mobile app.
- Emergency Help: Call 112 for immediate police assistance.
- In-Train Help: Use the intercom located near the doors of the metro coach.
The incident serves as a reminder for commuters to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately to ensure a safe travel environment for all.
