BENGALURU: In a new twist to the road rage incident that occurred on Old Madras Road in Bengaluru, BPO employee Vikas Kumar—who was earlier arrested following a complaint by Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose’s wife—has now accused the officer of physical assault and making false allegations.

Vikas, who was granted bail, released a video statement Tuesday claiming that Bose’s version of the events is fabricated and that he is now facing the threat of losing his job. “He attacked me and filed a false complaint using the language issue as a pretext. I work in Bengaluru and speak five languages. His accusations are baseless,” Vikas said.
According to Vikas, the confrontation began after a multi-utility vehicle (MUV) allegedly grazed his bike. He said he stopped the vehicle to question the driver when Bose, seated in the passenger seat, got out and pushed his motorcycle. “I fell on the road. He claimed he worked for the IAF and warned me not to mess with him. He then hit me. When I tried calling a friend, he bit me, smashed my phone, snatched my bike key, and even tried to strangle me,” he alleged.
The incident, which took place Monday, has now escalated into a larger controversy with linguistic overtones. The Bengaluru police have registered a fresh FIR against Wing Commander Bose on charges of attempt to murder and provoking a breach of peace. This came after Vikas filed a counter-complaint.
Meanwhile, pro-Kannada activists gathered outside the Baiyyappanahalli police station, demanding action against Bose. IAF officials also visited the station to gather information for an internal inquiry.
The matter drew the attention of Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah, who issued a strong condemnation of the officer’s alleged remarks about Kannada and Kannadigas. Calling Bose’s comments “unwarranted and derogatory,” the CM stated: “Kannadigas take pride in their language but are neither intolerant nor parochial. Karnataka has always embraced diversity and welcomed people from all parts of the country.”
He further criticised sections of the national media for allegedly amplifying a “baseless accusation,” adding that such reporting has hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas. The state government, he said, is taking the incident seriously and will ensure justice is served.