Threat call linked to crackdown on unregistered autos, Soladevanahalli police register case, security concerns rise over interstate enforcement tensions
Bengaluru: In a worrying development raising serious law and order concerns, a Maharashtra RTO officer visiting Bengaluru has allegedly received a death threat in the name of the ‘Bishnoi gang’, triggering a police investigation in the outskirts of the city.
The incident was reported under the jurisdiction of Soladevanahalli Police Station, where a formal complaint has been registered and a probe is currently underway.
Officer Targeted During Official Visit
The officer, identified as Prasad Shivadas Nalvade from the Maharashtra Regional Transport Office, had arrived in Bengaluru last week to participate in a cricket tournament organised as part of a road safety campaign by the All India Motor Vehicle Federation.
The event was held at the Ashoka Rising Star Cricket Stadium, within Soladevanahalli police limits.
Threat Call Sparks Panic
According to police sources, the officer received a threatening phone call on April 12 while he was in the Agrahara area. The caller allegedly warned him of serious consequences for his family, claiming to be associated with the ‘Ravi Bishnoi gang’.
“You are taking strict action against auto drivers, you will have to face the consequences,” the caller reportedly threatened.
The nature of the threat has raised alarms, especially given the reference to an organized gang.
Link to Crackdown on Illegal Autos
Officials suspect that the threat may be linked to recent strict enforcement actions in Maharashtra against:
- Unregistered auto-rickshaws
- Vehicles operating without proper permits
Investigators believe the caller’s motive could be retaliation or intimidation tied to these enforcement measures, though the exact connection is yet to be established.
Case Registered, Probe Underway
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to:
- Trace the origin of the threatening call
- Verify any real links to the Bishnoi gang
- Examine possible involvement of local or interstate networks
Technical surveillance and call data analysis are being used to identify the accused.
Security Concerns Rise
The incident has sparked concern over the safety of government officials involved in enforcement duties, especially when actions impact interstate transport operations and illegal networks.
Authorities are also assessing whether additional security measures are required for officials facing similar threats.
What Lies Ahead
As the investigation progresses, police are expected to determine whether the threat was genuine or a scare tactic. However, the case underscores the growing risks faced by officials enforcing transport regulations.
