BENGALURU: A shocking incident of road rage has left an Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander injured and sparked outrage in Bengaluru. Wing Commander Aditya Bose, who is attached to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), was assaulted on April 21, 2025, while being driven to the airport by his wife, Squadron Leader Madhumita. The couple was en route to drop him off at a bus stop near Gopalan Mall when the incident occurred around 6:30 AM.
According to reports, the confrontation began when a biker, identified as Vikas Kumar, drove recklessly and blocked their vehicle. After noticing the DRDO sticker on their car, the biker allegedly dismounted and began verbally abusing them in Kannada. The situation escalated quickly, with the biker striking Wing Commander Bose on the forehead with a key, resulting in visible injuries and bleeding.
In a video posted on social media shortly after the attack, Wing Commander Bose recounted the harrowing experience, stating, "A bike came from behind and stopped our car. The guy started abusing me in Kannada. When they saw the DRDO sticker on my car and said 'You DRDO people', they also abused my wife. The moment I got out of my car, the biker hit me with a key on my forehead, and there was blood." His emotional plea highlighted the shocking reality of the incident, pointing out the irony of being attacked despite serving the nation.
His wife, Squadron Leader Madhumita, filed a police complaint at the Baiyappanahalli Police Station after the incident. In her statement, she described how the biker not only attacked her husband but also verbally abused them, saying, "We got down and tried to stop him, but he didn’t stop and was hitting my husband badly. He then picked up a stone and hit my husband on the head." The police have since arrested the accused, Vikas Kumar, who is reportedly 20 years old and resides in Babusaab Palya.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), D Devaraj, confirmed the arrest, stating, "The attack on the wing commander was due to road rage. The incident happened on Monday morning and by noon, the accused had been arrested. The Byappanahalli police have registered a case against the accused for causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means." Videos of the incident, captured by bystanders and CCTV footage, have played a crucial role in the investigation.
Wing Commander Bose expressed his frustration at the lack of immediate police response following the attack. He stated, "We went to the police station but presently there was no response. This is what Karnataka has become. I believed in Kannada, but seeing the truth, the reality of the main heartland of Karnataka, I could not believe it." His remarks reflect a broader concern about safety and the treatment of armed forces personnel.
In his initial video, he also warned that if the law and order system failed to protect him, he might be compelled to retaliate. "God help us. God give me the power not to retaliate. Tomorrow, if law and order don't help us, I will retaliate," he said, underscoring the emotional toll of the incident.
Following the incident, the police have been working to verify the details and have expressed their commitment to ensuring a thorough investigation. Sources within the police department stated, "An unfortunate incident of suspected road rage has come to light. The situation is being addressed. The officer was treated in a hospital for his injuries. The IAF is extending full support to the officer and civil authorities for lawful resolution of the matter."
As the investigation continues, the incident has raised questions about road safety and the treatment of military personnel in civilian life. The emotional videos shared by Wing Commander Bose have garnered significant attention, highlighting the need for greater awareness and respect for those who serve in the armed forces.
In a subsequent video, Wing Commander Bose, now seen with bandages, reiterated the details of the attack. He explained that he was scheduled to fly to Kolkata to admit his father to the hospital for surgery, adding to the distress of the situation. He stated that during the altercation, he also lost his phone and keys, further complicating the aftermath of the incident.
The Bengaluru police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, including reviewing CCTV footage that captures the events leading up to the assault. They have also reached out to the victims to gather more information as part of their ongoing inquiry.
As the community reacts to this troubling incident, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those in uniform when navigating civilian life. The support extended by the IAF and local authorities will be crucial in addressing the aftermath of this incident and ensuring that justice is served.
