Bengaluru: A video circulating on social media depicting Bengaluru Metro's security personnel allegedly refusing entry to an elderly passenger due to his 'dirty clothes' has ignited widespread condemnation.

Following intense backlash on social media, with users questioning the fairness of the Metro's treatment, the state-owned Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) took action by terminating the employment of the security supervisor at Rajajinagar station on Monday.

BMRCL swiftly addressed the issue, reaffirming that the Metro is a public transportation system accessible to all. In a statement posted on X, the corporation expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and emphasized its commitment to inclusivity.

The video, initially shared on X on Saturday, gained momentum on Monday morning, prompting BMRCL's prompt response regarding the dismissal of the security supervisor.

Recorded by a Kannadiga bystander, the video captures the altercation between the commuter, identified as Karthik C. Airani, and the Metro security staff over the denial of entry to a Hindi-speaking elderly passenger due to his attire.

The commuter who filmed the incident questioned the security staff's justification for refusing entry to the elderly passenger, who possessed a valid ticket. He challenged the existence of any regulations prohibiting individuals with soiled clothes from boarding the Metro.

Expressing frustration at the situation, the bystander criticized the Metro's policies, questioning whether it functions as a VIP transport and emphasizing its obligation to serve the public.

Another individual, joining the protest, defended the elderly man, noting his occupation as a farmer and highlighting the unfairness of discriminating against someone based on their attire.

After a prolonged argument lasting approximately 15 minutes, the security staff eventually relented, allowing the elderly man to enter the platform and continue his journey.

While a BMRCL official confirmed the elderly man's boarding of a train from Rajajinagar station, they did not disclose his destination.

Reacting to the incident, Lavanya Ballal, state Congress general secretary for media communications, condemned BMRCL's actions and called for employee sensitization programs.

Various social media users, including Muthu Ranganathan, emphasized the inclusive nature of Namma Metro ("Our Metro" in Kannada), expressing disappointment at the mistreatment of the elderly passenger over his clothing.