Bengaluru: A query about a bus stop turned into a violent assault on a 38-year-old man, who was allegedly robbed of Rs 25,000 and attacked with a sharp weapon by a ragpicker near a wine shop in T Dasarahalli around 1.30am Saturday.Nagaraj G, from Pavagada, was planning to travel to his native place Friday night. After reaching Jalahalli Cross late at night, he could not find a bus and decided to walk towards 8th Mile, hoping to find a bus or other vehicles headed to Pavagada.While walking near a wine shop, Nagaraj said he approached an unidentified man and asked, “Bro, where is the bus stop?” The man allegedly abused him and picked an argument before snatching his bag. Nagaraj claimed the man took Rs 20,000 from the bag and another Rs 5,000 from his pocket.When he resisted and questioned the man, the accused allegedly attacked Nagaraj with a weapon, stabbing him in the chest before striking him on the head and near his left cheek, leaving him bleeding.Hearing the commotion, a few youngsters rushed to Nagaraj’s aid, prompting the accused to flee. They alerted police helpline 112, following which personnel reached the spot. Nagaraj was taken to a nearby private hospital for treatment and later advised to seek care at a larger hospital. After receiving initial treatment, he approached police and lodged a complaint.Bagalagunte police registered a case under Section 309 (robbery) of the BNS and arrested the accused ragpicker, Manjunath, 60.A senior officer said Manjunath claimed Nagaraj was heavily drunk and had rudely approached him for directions to the bus stand. Manjunath allegedly said he broke a Breezer bottle in a fit of rage and attacked Nagaraj, but denied robbing him. “We aren’t sure who is telling the truth. If Nagaraj has falsely claimed that his money was taken, we will take action against him. Investigation is ongoing,” the officer said.
