A recent incident in Bengaluru has triggered widespread outrage after a viral video showed an auto-driver in a heated confrontation with a woman. During the altercation, the driver allegedly “slapped” the woman and tried to snatch her phone. The conflict reportedly began when the woman and her friend canceled a ride at the last moment, which led to the auto-driver’s aggressive response.
In a series of posts on social media platform X on 4th September, the woman claimed she “faced severe harassment and was physically assaulted by your auto driver in Bangalore after a simple ride cancellation.” A video recording of the incident, which was also shared online, quickly went viral, drawing significant public attention.
The auto-driver involved in the incident is said to be affiliated with Ola cab services. In the video, he can be seen angrily confronting the woman, saying, “Tera baap deta hai kya gas…[Does your father provide me the gas for the auto?].” Moments later, he allegedly attempted to grab the woman’s phone and slapped her during the altercation.
Woman Provides Details of the Incident
The woman took to X to describe what had happened. “Yesterday in Bangalore, my friend and I booked two autos on Ola due to peak hours. My auto arrived first, so she canceled hers. The other auto driver followed us, furious. Despite explaining the situation, he started shouting and hurling abuses,” she wrote.
She further elaborated on the situation, stating, “The driver went on to verbally assault us, questioning whether the auto belonged to my father and making derogatory comments. I began recording, which enraged him further. When I mentioned reporting him, he challenged me, showing no fear of consequences.”
The woman explained that their only mistake was booking two autos to ensure her friend didn’t miss her class. “In Bangalore, autos often cancel rides or demand extra money. The argument could have been tolerated, but the driver’s threats and assault crossed a line,” she remarked.
She continued, “Things escalated when he tried to snatch my phone. I resisted, and he slapped me in front of my auto driver, who did nothing, and bystanders who remained passive. Despite this, he continued his threats, saying he’d beat me with his slippers too.”
Expressing her frustration, the woman added that she had “never felt this unsafe in Bangalore” and called on Ola to take immediate and stringent action. “I’ll be attaching videos and the receipt of the ride as proof. I also have my auto driver’s number as a witness if needed,” she noted.
She also criticized Ola’s lackluster response to the incident. “Thankfully, my driver managed to get us away, but Ola’s response has been disappointing. After reporting the incident via the app, we received only an automated reply. Attempts to reach their support line failed, leaving us frustrated and helpless,” she said.
Police Take Swift Action
Following the incident, the West Bengaluru Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) intervened, and the auto-driver was taken into custody. “The Auto Driver has been apprehended by Magadi Road Police. Action is being initiated for the offense committed as per law,” the police confirmed in a post on X on 5th September.
The woman expressed her gratitude to the Bengaluru Police for their swift response. “Thank you @DCPWestBCP for looking into the matter personally,” she wrote. She also mentioned that the auto-driver is now under the custody of the Magadi Road Police Station and that she was assured of appropriate legal action being taken against him to ensure justice is served.
“The police have fulfilled their duty, and I now hope the court will do the same,” she concluded.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about passenger safety and the need for more stringent measures against harassment in public transport. The quick response from the police is commendable, but the incident highlights significant gaps in service providers’ support systems.
If you have ever faced a similar situation, do not hesitate to report it to the authorities and share your experiences to help ensure a safer environment for all.
