A recent road rage incident involving Indian Air Force (IAF) officer Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose has sparked a national debate after CCTV footage seemingly altered public perception of what transpired. However, as the narrative continues to evolve, it is crucial to consider the broader context and circumstances before rushing to judgment against a decorated military officer.
The Initial Incident and Allegations
The altercation occurred near the DRDO colony in CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru. Wing Commander Bose and his wife, Squadron Leader Madhumita Das, were en route to the airport when an encounter with a biker took a violent turn. In a video message shortly after the incident, Bose—his face visibly bloodied—alleged that he was verbally abused in Kannada and physically attacked when he stepped out to confront the rider. He claimed the biker assaulted him with a key, causing severe injuries to his face and neck.
Following this, an FIR was filed, and the biker was arrested based on the official complaint by Squadron Leader Das. Initial reports, including those from major news outlets, suggested that the officer had been targeted possibly due to the DRDO sticker on his vehicle, fuelling speculation of a language-based confrontation.
The CCTV Footage and Its Interpretation
The emergence of CCTV footage days later led to a swift shift in narrative. The visuals, now viral on social media, show Wing Commander Bose involved in a physical altercation with the biker, who has been identified as a delivery worker. Clips show Bose engaging aggressively, including pushing, kicking, and attempting to restrain the individual on the ground.
However, context remains crucial. The footage does not capture the complete sequence of events—particularly what triggered the confrontation. It also does not show the alleged initial provocation or the claimed use of abusive language. In fact, the moments leading up to the physical encounter—those that may have caused a trained officer to believe he or his wife was under threat—are not visible.
A Trained Officer Acting Under Perceived Threat?
Wing Commander Bose, a senior IAF officer with an impeccable service record, has dedicated his life to the defence of the nation. His instinctive reaction in a high-stress situation could very well be attributed to a perceived threat to his safety or that of his wife. In such scenarios, military training often prompts personnel to neutralise threats quickly and decisively.
While critics argue that the officer used excessive force, supporters stress that the footage lacks audio and fails to provide the full scope of the exchange—verbal or physical—that may have preceded the altercation. In the absence of this vital context, assumptions about intent and proportionality may be premature.
Media Trials and the Risk of Misjudgment
The rapid vilification of the officer on social media and by certain sections of the media raises important questions about trial by public opinion. While transparency and accountability are essential, it is equally important to ensure that the rule of law prevails and that a thorough, fair investigation is conducted before branding anyone guilty.
It’s also worth noting that the FIR was registered in the immediate aftermath based on the injuries sustained by Wing Commander Bose—evidence that points to a real physical confrontation, not a fabricated claim. The idea that the officer acted without provocation is purely speculative until verified through a proper legal process.
Call for a Balanced, Lawful Approach
Deputy Commissioner of Police D. Devaraj has clarified that the incident appears to be a case of road rage, dismissing any language-related motive. This assertion refocuses attention on the immediate conflict rather than broader social triggers.
As emotions run high on both sides, the need of the hour is calm, objective scrutiny. The IAF and law enforcement agencies must be allowed to complete their internal and external inquiries, ensuring justice is served without compromising institutional integrity or individual dignity.
Final Thoughts
Every citizen, including those in uniform, is accountable under the law. But they are also entitled to the same due process as any other individual. To reduce this complex incident to a simplistic binary of right and wrong is to ignore the grey areas that often define real-life conflicts.
Wing Commander Bose’s years of disciplined service and the credibility of his initial report cannot be dismissed outright on the basis of an incomplete visual narrative. Until all facts emerge, it is vital that the officer’s side of the story is heard with the same seriousness and respect accorded to any civilian.
Let us uphold the principle that justice must be based on facts, not fervour—and that accountability must apply equally, without bias or haste.
