Sundargarh, June 26 (UDN): A conductor of a government-run Mukhyamantri Bus Seva vehicle has come under scrutiny after allegedly forcing four passengers, including elderly tribal persons, to alight from the bus midway over a Re 1 fare shortfall in Odisha’s Sundargarh district.

The incident, reported from Koida block, has sparked widespread outrage after a purported video of the episode surfaced on social media and quickly went viral.

According to sources, the passengers had boarded the bus at Koida main bus stand and were travelling to Choradhara panchayat. The fare for the journey was reportedly Rs 41, but the passengers could pay only Rs 40. Allegedly angered by the shortfall, the conductor asked them to get off the bus despite repeated appeals from the passengers.

Eyewitnesses alleged that the passengers, including elderly tribal men and women, were forced to disembark midway, causing them considerable inconvenience. Some locals also claimed that the conductor behaved harshly with the passengers during the altercation.

The incident has triggered strong reactions on social media, with many users condemning the alleged treatment meted out to the passengers and calling for strict action against those responsible.

While the authenticity of the viral video and the exact sequence of events are yet to be officially verified, the incident has once again brought the spotlight on the need for sensitivity and humane conduct in public transport services, particularly while dealing with economically and socially vulnerable sections.

Transport department officials are yet to issue a formal statement on the matter. However, sources indicated that the incident may be examined and appropriate action initiated if the allegations are found to be true.

The episode has reignited concerns over passenger rights, accountability of transport personnel and the quality of service in government-run public transport systems.