BENGALURU: Karnataka’s Upalokayukta Justice K.N. Phaneendra has directed the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) to immediately provide essential first-aid and medical facilities at all its bus stands in the city.
The direction came after a senior citizen travelling from Ramamurthy Nagar to Shivajinagar reportedly suffered a seizure and collapsed after reaching a bus stand. However, no first-aid kit or immediate medical assistance was available at the spot.
The bus driver and conductor reportedly struggled to move the passenger and arrange medical assistance, resulting in a delay of more than 30 minutes in taking him to hospital.
Suo motu case initiated
Taking serious note of the incident reported in the media, Justice Phaneendra initiated a suo motu case and sought an explanation from BMTC authorities by October 12.
The report also highlighted that, barring the Shanthinagar bus stand, BMTC bus stands reportedly lack basic first-aid facilities.
Justice Phaneendra observed that such an administrative failure could amount to a violation of the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, particularly when emergency medical assistance is required.
BMTC asked to improve emergency response
The suo motu proceedings have been initiated under Section 12(1) of the Karnataka Lokayukta Act, 1984, with the objective of addressing administrative lapses in BMTC’s emergency response system.
The transport corporation has been directed to ensure that passengers, particularly senior citizens and those facing sudden medical emergencies, have access to immediate first aid and necessary medical assistance at bus stands.
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