Pramesh S Jain
Residents and commuters in parts of Bengaluru have raised serious concerns over alleged harassment and intimidation by a group of transgender persons under the guise of seeking alms,particularly in busy commercial areas.
A recent incident was reported on BVK Iyengar Road in Chickpet on Wednesday,where several transgender persons allegedly accosted pedestrians and motorists during daytime hours.
According to locals,they allegedly demanded money and resorted to abusive language and indecent behaviour when people refused to comply.
Eyewitnesses claimed that the group allegedly clapped loudly,used obscene words and behaved indecently in the middle of the road,causing embarrassment and fear among the public.
Some commuters alleged that they were forced to pay a fixed amount,and in a few cases,wallets were allegedly snatched when money was not given.
A local resident said that the alleged misconduct was captured on a mobile phone camera,with the footage also partially visible on nearby CCTV cameras.
The visuals reportedly show aggressive behaviour that disrupted traffic and created panic among shoppers and pedestrians in the crowded market stretch.
The incident falls under the jurisdiction of the City Market Police Station.Police officials said they are verifying the video footage and gathering information from witnesses.
“We have received complaints and are looking into the matter.Appropriate legal action will be initiated if any law-and-order violation is established,”a senior officer said.
Police have urged the public to report such incidents immediately rather than taking the law into their own hands.
At the same time,officials stressed that any unlawful activity, irrespective of the individuals involved, will not be tolerated,while ensuring action is taken strictly as per law.
The incident has renewed calls from traders and residents for increased police patrolling in high-footfall commercial areas like Chickpet to prevent harassment and ensure public safety.
