A woman in Bengaluru was allegedly harassed and slapped by an Ola auto driver after she canceled a ride booked through the app. A video of the confrontation shared on social media, shows the driver attempting to snatch the woman’s phone as they argue. According to the police, the driver has been arrested.
In the video, the agitated driver is seen arguing loudly with the woman. When she asks why he’s shouting, he retorts angrily, “Does your father pay for the gas?”
The woman then threatens to file a police complaint, and the driver responds dismissively, urging her to do so. As the argument escalates, the driver tries to grab her phone and insists she get into his auto to go to the police station, but she refuses. The video ends with the driver eventually leaving.
@BlrCityPolice @CPBlr,
Is this acceptable behavior of Auto driver? Harassing female passenger!
It's becoming difficult for women to venture out alone in #Bengaluru
pic.twitter.com/KR669U6P69— Citizens Movement, East Bengaluru (@east_bengaluru) September 5, 2024
Ola responded to the incident on social media, stating that the situation “sounds quite alarming” and that they will investigate the matter. Alok Kumar, Additional Director General of Police Traffic and Road Safety, condemned the driver’s behavior, saying, “Such behavior is unacceptable” and that a few individuals tarnish the reputation of the auto driver community. He assured that appropriate action would be taken.
Yesterday I faced severe harassment and was physically assaulted by your auto driver in Bangalore after a simple ride cancellation. Despite reporting, your customer support has been unresponsive. Immediate action is needed! @Olacabs @ola_supports @BlrCityPolice pic.twitter.com/iTkXFKDMS7
— Niti (@nihihiti) September 4, 2024
The Auto Driver has been apprehended by Magadi Road Police.Action is being initiated for the offence committed as per law. pic.twitter.com/YpHgql69Xf
— DCP West Bengaluru (@DCPWestBCP) September 5, 2024
The woman explained on social media that she and her friend had booked two autos due to peak hours. After her auto arrived first, her friend canceled the other booking. The driver of the canceled ride followed them and began verbally abusing them. Despite explaining the situation, the driver continued to shout and hurl insults. When the woman began recording the incident, the driver grew even more aggressive. She claimed that he attempted to snatch her phone and slapped her when she resisted. The woman further alleged that the driver threatened to hit her with his slippers.
The police confirmed that the driver has been arrested, and appropriate legal action is being taken.
