Karnataka Viral Video: Testing Patience! Driver Stops Bus in the Middle, Offers Namaz, Passengers Left High and Dry in the Heat

A video from Karnataka has gone viral, showing a state transport bus driver stopping the vehicle mid-route to offer Namaz, leaving passengers waiting inside the bus. The incident has sparked widespread debate and prompted an official inquiry. 

कर्नाटक: बस चालक शफीउल्ला नदाफ ने हुबली से हावेरी जा रही एक सरकारी बस को सड़क के किनारे नमाज अदा करने के लिए बीच रास्ते में रोक दिया, जिसमें यात्री अंदर थे।

यदि यह कोई अन्य धर्म होता, तो अब तक उन्हें निलंबित कर दिया गया होता या एफआईआर का सामना करना पड़ा होता।

बस के सारे हिंदू… pic.twitter.com/LH2ozaIXb8

— Ocean Jain (@ocjain4) April 30, 2025

Incident Details

On April 29, 2025, during a scheduled trip from Hubballi to Haveri, KSRTC driver Shafiulla Nadaf halted the bus on the roadside to perform Namaz. Passengers remained seated inside the bus during this time. A fellow passenger recorded the event, and the video quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing significant public attention.

Official Response

In response to the viral video and ensuing public outcry, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has initiated a departmental inquiry into the matter. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy emphasized the importance of adhering to service rules, stating that while individuals have the right to practice their religion, such activities should not interfere with official duties. The minister has called for a thorough investigation, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.

Public Reaction

The incident has elicited mixed reactions from the public. Some individuals have criticized the driver's actions, arguing that personal religious practices should not disrupt public services. Others have defended the driver's right to religious freedom, suggesting that a brief pause for prayer is a reasonable accommodation. The debate highlights the ongoing discussion about balancing personal beliefs with professional responsibilities in public service roles.

Conclusion

This event underscores the challenges of navigating religious practices within the framework of public service. As the KSRTC conducts its investigation, the outcome may set a precedent for how such situations are handled in the future, aiming to respect individual rights while ensuring uninterrupted public services.