To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing about an incident that occurred on 31st July 2024, at approximately 10:30 AM, on Bus 990C (Bus Number DL 51 EV 0123). I boarded the bus at Rithala Bus Stop around 10:10 AM. The events that transpired during this journey were not only inconvenient but also unlawful and harassing, for which I seek immediate redress.
Upon boarding the bus, I attempted to purchase a ticket from the conductor with a 500 INR note. The conductor refused to issue a ticket, citing the lack of change. I then requested to purchase a ticket using my DMRC Metro Card, as advertised by DTC and DMRC. This request was also denied, with the conductor claiming no machine was available for processing Metro Card payments.
Subsequently, I attempted to purchase a ticket via the WhatsApp QR code displayed in the bus, which was non-functional. I then tried both the “One Delhi” and “Chartr” mobile applications to leverage the Digital India initiative for ticket purchase. Despite my repeated attempts, entering the bus number (0123) in both applications incorrectly indicated a 990B bus route towards SN Depot. Additionally, scanning the QR codes in the bus either failed due to one being unscannable or incorrectly showed the bus as 990B.
While I was contemplating alternative methods to secure a ticket, ATI Rajesh boarded the bus and commenced ticket inspection. I endeavored to explain my situation to him, highlighting my attempts to purchase a ticket and the failure of the digital and physical systems. ATI Rajesh was dismissive and uncooperative, insisting that I should have alighted the bus after a stop or two despite the 990C bus having a frequency exceeding 30 minutes, and my professional obligations as a doctor.
ATI Rajesh then demanded 500 INR under the guise of providing change, only to cunningly and falsely impose a fine of 200 INR on me, publicly embarrassing and harassing me in front of other passengers. This unwarranted and deceitful action has caused significant distress and inconvenience.
I demand the following actions to rectify this situation:
1. An immediate refund of the 200 INR fine unjustly imposed on me.
2. A written apology from both the depot manager and ATI Rajesh for the harassment and inconvenience caused.
3. A review and rectification of the issues with the digital ticketing system and the functionality of the QR codes.
4. An assurance that such incidents will not recur, with appropriate training and directives issued to DTC staff to handle similar situations more effectively and lawfully.
If these demands are not met by 1st August 2024, I will be compelled to pursue legal action against DTC for unlawful fine and public harassment, including but not limited to filing a lawsuit and seeking damages for the distress caused.
Please refer to the bus CCTV footage to corroborate my account of the events, where it will be evident that I made continuous efforts to purchase a ticket through various means.
I look forward to your prompt and satisfactory resolution to this matter.
Sincerely,
Dr Satya Prakhar Srivastava
