Bengaluru: Auto driver who ‘harassed’ Rapido biker lands in police custody

A video showing an auto driver harassing a Rapido taxi biker near the Indiranagar metro station in Bengaluru went viral on social media on March 5. The video, first shared on Twitter, drew sharp reactions from netizens who called out the auto driver for his rude behaviour. Rapido later said that the alleged harassment took place on March 1.

Condemning the attack, Rapido Friday issued a statement saying: “Rapido strongly condemns the dastardly assault of one of our Captains in Bengaluru by an auto driver. We would like to thank the police authorities for their swift action in launching an investigation and promising strict action. Rapido has and will always stand by its Captains and will do whatever is required to protect and support them. We request our esteemed customers and Captains as well as citizens to bring to light such untoward incidents by reaching out to our 24*7 Customer Service support. At Rapido, we are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce.”

In the video, the auto driver is heard saying: “Rapido bikes are operating illegally. This foreigner is riding Rapido bikes in the city without any fear. This shows how bad our auto (transport) department is. This foreigner was giving a ride to a lady even though he has a white number plate.” It looked like the video was filmed at the request of the auto driver.

Days after the video went viral, the Bengaluru city police tweeted that the Indiranagar police were looking into the matter. The Indiranagar police stated they reached out to the victim and asked him to file a complaint.