Controversy erupts over bus driver's mid-route prayer break video goes VIRAL

A recent incident in Karnataka has sparked widespread debate and discussion after a state transport bus driver stopped the vehicle mid-route to offer namaz prayers. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, has raised questions about the appropriateness of such actions during working hours.

Edited By: Nishika Jha

Last Updated : 01 May 2025, 11:02 AM IST

Karnataka Bus Driver Stops Midway To Offer Namaz (X/@AngrySaffron)

karnataka: The viral clip has the bus driver stop the bus to the roadside and get off to offer namaz prayers. Other passengers and passersby watch as the driver is utterly engrossed in his prayers. The video has caused heated debate, with many wondering whether it is permissible to engage in such activities at work hours.

Karnataka: Bus driver Shafiulla Nadaf stopped a govt bus mid-route from Hubballi to Haveri to offer Namaz roadside, with passengers inside.

If this were any other religion, they’d likely be suspended or face an FIR by now. pic.twitter.com/4kdqjnmBKH
— Angry Saffron (@AngrySaffron) April 30, 2025

Investigation ordered

After the circulation of the video, Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy asked for a probe into the incident. The manager of North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation has received a letter from Reddy on this subject. Reddy felt concerned that it was improper for the driver to stop the bus in mid-tunnel when it had people traveling inside in order to present prayers.

Rules and regulations

Reddy asserted that the employees serving in public service must be governed by some rules and regulations, such as not practicing their religion while at work. Everyone is free to exercise their religious faith, but this should not hinder their work.

Disciplinary action

The minister instructed the corporation to carry out an instant investigation into the incident and impose disciplinary action on the employee if found guilty.The objective is to make sure that such an incident does not occur in the future.

Public reaction

The incident evoked a public reaction that ranged from defending the right of the driver to follow his religion and questioning the wisdom of the act during working time. The debate underscores the tensions involved in ensuring individual rights alongside professional obligations.

Bus driver's mid-journey prayer break

The furor over the bus driver's mid-journey prayer break has raised significant questions regarding the lines between work and personal life. As the inquiry continues, it is unclear what will be done and how such incidents can be avoided in the future.

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