Police officer under influence attempts to drive KSRTC bus, causes panic

Tense moments unfolded at the KSRTC bus stand here on Thursday when a police officer, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, attempted to drive a bus to Pampa on his own.

The officer, identified as Manoj Kumar, a native of Ayoor who had arrived from the Adoor AR camp for duty at Pamba, switched on the bus ignition and demanded that it depart earlier than its scheduled time of 6:50 p.m.

Officials said the bus had been parked at the platform while staff had stepped away to the office when the incident occurred. The officer allegedly pressed the ignition switch, causing the bus to move briefly before coming to a halt, averting a potential mishap.

KSRTC authorities confirmed that Manoj Kumar was under the influence of alcohol and alleged that he misbehaved with staff and passengers, including women. Another police officer at the scene intervened and a police team from Pathanamthitta soon rushed to control the situation.

Passengers alleged that the accused had created a commotion inside the bus while inebriated. The bus eventually departed for Pampa well after its scheduled time.

Following a complaint filed by KSRTC authorities, the Pathanamthitta police took the officer into custody and booked a case against him.