In a disturbing incident that has drawn attention to safety concerns in public transportation, a woman in Bengaluru has recounted her experience of being groped on a metro train. The incident, which occurred on December 25, 2025, has sparked discussions about women’s safety in urban transit systems and the need for effective measures to combat sexual harassment.
The woman, identified as 28-year-old Priya Sharma, was traveling on the Namma Metro during the evening rush hour when the incident took place. According to her account, she was standing near the door of the train when a man, later identified as 32-year-old Ravi Kumar, pressed himself against her and groped her. Sharma described the moment as shocking and disorienting, stating, “I froze for a moment, unsure of what to do. It felt surreal, like something out of a nightmare.”
Sharma’s experience is not an isolated case. Reports of sexual harassment in public spaces, particularly on public transport, have been a persistent issue in India. According to a 2021 survey conducted by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), incidents of sexual harassment in public places have increased by 30% over the past five years. The survey highlighted that women often feel vulnerable while using public transport, especially during peak hours when trains and buses are overcrowded.
Following the incident, Sharma decided to confront her assailant. She shouted at Kumar, demanding that he stop and move away from her. Witnesses reported that her loud protests drew the attention of other passengers, some of whom intervened to support her. “I realized that I had to fight back, not just for myself but for all women who face such harassment,” Sharma said. Her actions prompted Kumar to flee the scene, but not before several passengers noted his appearance and reported the incident to the authorities.
The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has been under scrutiny for its safety protocols, particularly in light of this incident. The metro system, which began operations in 2011, has been praised for its efficiency and connectivity but has faced criticism regarding the safety of female passengers. In response to the growing concerns, BMRCL has implemented measures such as the installation of CCTV cameras, increased security personnel, and the introduction of women-only coaches during peak hours.
However, many advocates argue that these measures are insufficient. “While the BMRCL has taken steps to improve safety, there is still a long way to go,” said Meera Joshi, a women’s rights activist based in Bengaluru. “We need comprehensive policies that not only address the symptoms of harassment but also tackle the root causes of gender-based violence.”
The incident has also reignited discussions about the legal framework surrounding sexual harassment in India. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, enacted in 2013, aimed to provide a safer environment for women in workplaces but has been criticized for its limited scope. Many activists are calling for a broader application of such laws to encompass public spaces, including transportation systems.
In the wake of Sharma’s experience, the Bengaluru police have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the metro station and train to identify the suspect. Police spokesperson Inspector Ramesh Kumar stated, “We take such incidents very seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of all passengers. We urge anyone who experiences harassment to report it immediately.”
The implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate context of public transport in Bengaluru. It highlights a pervasive issue of gender-based violence that affects women across India. As urbanization continues to rise, with more people relying on public transport systems, the need for effective safety measures becomes increasingly urgent.
Sharma’s story has resonated with many women who have faced similar experiences. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of support, with users sharing their own stories of harassment and calling for systemic change. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for women’s safety and the importance of collective action in addressing these challenges.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on the need for improved safety measures and a cultural shift that empowers women to speak out against harassment. The incident has sparked a renewed commitment among activists, policymakers, and the public to work towards a safer environment for all.
