‘Suspend him? He should be jailed!’ – Bengaluru cop’s slap video fuels online outrage

A short video from Bengaluru showing a traffic police officer slapping a biker has gone viral on social media. The clip, recorded by someone nearby, has sparked anger and debate online, with many people calling it an abuse of power.In a city where traffic struggles are part of daily life, the video quickly grabbed attention. The strong public reaction pushed the authorities to step in and take action against the officer.Official response follows viral clipAfter the video gained momentum online, the Bengaluru traffic department responded with a statement. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Traffic) confirmed that the officer involved had been suspended. In a post shared on X, the DCP stated: “Accountability and respect go hand-in-hand. Action taken against staff for misbehavior.”While the department has taken this immediate step, the suspension is being viewed by many as just the beginning of what should be a more thorough examination of the incident.‘Why just suspension?’ Public seeks stronger actionThe move to suspend the officer has not satisfied a large section of the public, with many pointing out that a slap in uniform should be treated as a serious offense, not just a disciplinary lapse. One user wrote, “Suspended? He should be booked under criminal charges and be in jail. If a civilian slaps a policeman, they go to jail. Why is this different?”Conversations shift to policing cultureAs more people reacted to the video, the focus shifted from the individual incident to a broader conversation around policing methods. Several users raised concerns over the tone and approach often seen during routine checks on city roads.One comment read, “Slapping citizens for traffic stops? That’s not policing, it’s thuggery in uniform! Suspend him NOW. Equal law means cops get the boot too, not just fines. Bodycam mandate or more viral slaps?”Others added that this was not an isolated case, but part of a wider pattern that needs urgent attention.Selective policing also under fireThe incident has also reignited debates around the selective enforcement of traffic rules. Many questioned why similar aggression isn’t seen when it comes to dealing with repeat offenders like illegal heavy vehicles or auto-rickshaws violating road rules. “Show the same courage against auto drivers, tankers, and heavy vehicles coming from the wrong side during peak hours. Waiting for strict action,” wrote one user.Demand for reforms and accountabilityBeyond suspension, there is a visible call for change in how traffic policing is handled. Several people have demanded compulsory use of bodycams and better training to avoid confrontational situations. Others stressed that officers must be held to the same legal standards as any citizen.Another user shared, “I saw a female traffic cop over Marathahalli bridge literally pulling someone off their bike today. Though she didn’t slap, the attitude was the same.”Thumb image credits: X