Karnataka bus owner renames 'Israel Travels' to 'Jerusalem' after online backlash

A private bus owner in Karnataka, who named his bus 'Israel Travels', has changed the name to 'Jerusalem' following public criticism on social media. The decision came after people objected to the original name, linking it to ongoing international tensions.

Social media users demanded FIR

The bus, which operates on the Moodbidri-Kinnigoli-Kateel-Mulki route, attracted attention when a photo of it was shared online amid the rising Israel-Iran conflict. Some users demanded that authorities file an FIR against the bus owner for naming his vehicle after Israel, according to Deccan Herald.

Lester, the bus owner from Kateel, has been working in Israel for the past 12 years. He recently bought the bus and chose the name 'Israel Travels' to reflect his admiration for the country. However, after facing objections, he decided to change the name.

"Soon after noticing social media messages, I voluntarily decided to change the name," Lester said. "I have no idea why people have a problem with naming the bus as Israel Travels."

Explaining his decision further, Lester added, "Israel gave me life. This is the country where holy land Jerusalem is situated. I love the system in Israel, and as an admirer, I named the bus after it. I was saddened by the social media comments. Hence, I voluntarily decided to change the name of the bus. I did not wish to hurt anyone."

Lester's family, who resides in Kateel, manages the day-to-day operations of the bus while he continues to work in Israel.

Bus owner questions objections?

In an interview with TOI, Lester expressed confusion over the backlash, especially since local police had not taken issue with the name.

"Soon after noticing these messages on social media, I decided to change the name," Lester said, adding that the authorities had not pressured him to make the change.

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"I have no idea why people have issues with 'Israel Travels,'" he stated, emphasizing his surprise at the controversy.

Meanwhile, those calling for a name change argued that if an FIR could be filed over a WhatsApp status supporting Palestine, the bus owner should also face legal action for naming his vehicle after Israel. Despite this, Lester changed the name voluntarily to avoid further conflict.

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