Moodbidri: A private bus operating between Mulki and Moodbidri has changed its name from "Israel Travels" to "Jerusalem Travels" following objections raised on social media.
The change comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas, with the bus name drawing public criticism.
The bus was originally purchased by Lester Kateel, a native of Kateel who has worked in Israel for the past 12 years. Upon returning, he invested in the bus, naming it "Israel Travels" in admiration of the country's systems and culture. His family has since been managing the business from Mangaluru.
As social media criticism by a particular community mounted over the name of the bus due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the matter was brought to the attention of local police. Authorities, in an effort to avoid any communal tension, requested the name be changed.
Lester, complying with the request, promptly renamed the bus "Jerusalem Travels."
Speaking on the issue, Lester explained, "I worked in Israel and witnessed its excellent systems. Out of respect, I named the bus ‘Israel.’ However, I have changed the name after objections were raised. Jerusalem is a holy land and is holy to both Israel and Palestine."
The situation has sparked discussions on social media, with many commenting on the importance of maintaining communal harmony in sensitive times.