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This incident highlights a growing concern in Bengaluru regarding the safety of women using ride-hailing services. A 46-year-old Ola auto driver, identified as R Muthuraj, was arrested and faces charges for assaulting a woman who canceled her ride with him. The incident began when the woman and her friend booked separate Ola rides for the same destination. One of them canceled her ride as the other auto arrived first, as the woman explained they booked two autos to ensure her friend wouldn’t miss her class. The driver, who was a minute away from the location, became furious about the cancellation and followed the woman, hurling abuses at her despite her explanation. He even attempted to snatch her phone to prevent her from recording the incident, eventually leading to a physical altercation where he slapped her. The incident was caught on video and went viral on social media, prompting swift action from authorities.
The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, sparked outrage and calls for action against the driver. The driver's actions drew widespread condemnation and raised questions about the accountability of ride-hailing services like Ola in ensuring the safety of their passengers. The driver, who was arrested by the Magadi Road police, faces charges under Sections 74 and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. He will spend four days in jail before he can apply for bail and will also face significant legal expenses. The driver’s license and permit will also be suspended. This incident underscores the need for ride-hailing services to implement robust safety measures and take swift action against drivers who engage in inappropriate behavior.
The incident has sparked a wider discussion about the safety of women in Bengaluru, particularly when using ride-hailing services. While Ola has taken steps to address the issue by suspending the driver’s account and cooperating with the police investigation, some users have expressed concerns about the app’s lack of immediate response to the woman's initial report of the incident. This incident highlights the need for ride-hailing services to improve their communication with passengers, provide more accessible support mechanisms, and proactively address concerns about passenger safety. Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all individuals using public transportation services, particularly in a city like Bengaluru where ride-hailing apps have become a primary mode of transportation.
Source: Bengaluru Auto Driver Who Slapped Woman to Pay Rs 30,000 in Legal Fees, Spend 4 Days in Jail