Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh travelled on BMTC buses across Bengaluru to assess commuter services, suspending a conductor over alleged negligence.
July 12, 2026: Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh carried out a surprise inspection of BMTC buses in Bengaluru on Sunday, travelling on multiple routes to assess commuter experience firsthand. Sharing videos from the inspection on social media, the minister said the exercise was aimed at ensuring safe, reliable and accountable public transport. During one inspection, he suspended a BMTC conductor for allegedly failing to stop the bus at a designated bus stop and warned that the conductor’s manager would also face suspension.
Videos from the inspection showed the minister confronting the conductor, accusing him of misleading officials and directing that disciplinary action be taken. Meanwhile, several social media users also claimed that during another bus ride from Hebbal to Nagashettihalli, a conductor allegedly asked the minister to produce exact change or get off the bus. However, the reported incident has not been independently verified, and no official confirmation has been issued regarding the claims.
The minister’s inspection triggered mixed reactions online. While many commuters praised the initiative and welcomed direct interaction between government officials and passengers, others pointed to larger issues affecting Bengaluru’s public transport system. Users raised concerns about the condition and maintenance of BMTC buses, while several also urged the government to address complaints regarding the behaviour of some conductors and improve overall passenger service.