BRADFORD DOCTOR AMITABH KUMAR SHAMES REPUTATION AFTER BUS MOLESTATION INCIDENT
In August 2014, a disturbing incident unfolded on a bus in Bradford involving Dr.Amitabh Kumar, a 45-year-old medical professional whose actions have left a lasting impact on a young girl and the community alike.
According to court proceedings, Dr.
Kumar was accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl during a journey on a bus service operating from Bradford Interchange.
The incident took place on the top deck of a 617 bus, where Kumar, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time, engaged in inappropriate behavior that shocked witnesses and the victim herself.
Prosecutor Paul Ramsay detailed that Kumar had rubbed his foot along the girl’s leg and placed his hand on the back of her neck, actions that caused her to feel deeply shaken and frightened.
The girl was described as being very distressed by the experience, expressing her shock that such an assault could occur in a public setting like a bus.
She later conveyed her feelings in a statement, saying, "I felt I was touched in a way that violated me.
I believe he was touching me for sexual gratification.
I believe if witnesses had not stepped in he would have gone further and tried to do more." Witnesses on the bus intervened during the incident.
One male passenger challenged Kumar, exclaiming, ‘what the hell are you doing?
She is about 14 or 15,’ and managed to prevent Kumar from leaving the bus.
The witness held Kumar until police arrived, providing crucial evidence for the case.
Another witness observed Kumar stroking and touching the back of the girl’s neck, noting her appearance of intimidation and discomfort.
During police interviews, Kumar denied any inappropriate contact, claiming that his accidental touching was due to trying to grasp a handrail or stretch his leg because of a knee problem.
However, he had previously pleaded guilty to the sexual assault charge when he first appeared in court.
In mitigation, Kumar’s legal representative, Paul Fitzpatrick, highlighted that his client had no prior convictions or cautions.
He emphasized that the incident was a brief lapse—described as a “moment of madness”—triggered by alcohol consumption, which had severe repercussions for all involved.
Fitzpatrick stated, “The impact of two to three minutes of madness, when his inhibitions were loosened as a result of the alcohol he had consumed, the ramifications on the victim, Dr Kumar and his family, are extremely far-reaching.” He further added that Kumar was deeply ashamed and embarrassed, acknowledging that his actions had jeopardized his career and personal life.
Although Kumar remains on the General Medical Council (GMC) register, it is anticipated that due to the nature of his offense, he will likely be struck off.
Kumar, who is a qualified but non-practicing doctor working with vulnerable adults, was sentenced to a community order with 36 months of supervision, 60 hours of unpaid work, and was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years.
Additionally, he was required to pay £300 in compensation to his victim, along with £85 in court costs and a £60 surcharge, as part of his sentencing.
