Bhikkhu assaulted by private bus crew

Irangika Range

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has suspended the operation of a private bus plying on the Colombo -Embilipitiya route after its driver and conductor had allegedly assaulted a bhikkhu traveling in the same bus on May 9. The NTC Spokesman said NTC Chairman Roshan Gunawardene has taken measures to revoke the official identity cards issued by NTC to the driver and conductor after an initial disciplinary inquiry following the instructions of Private Transport Services Minister C.B.Ratnayake.

The conductor and driver have been charged with misconduct and discourtesy to a bhikkhu while engaged in passenger transport.

Meanwhile, Kahawatta Police are carrying out investigations into the incident while the NTC is conducting further inquiries.