A viral video shows auto-rickshaw drivers harassing an Uber passenger and bike driver in Bengaluru. The incident, captured by Thomas Simte, has prompted police and Uber responses.
A video showing harassment of both an Uber passenger and an Uber bike driver is gaining widespread attention on social media. The footage, shared by user Thomas Simte on X, depicts a troubling scene at Bengaluru’s Indiranagar Metro station.
In the video, local auto-rickshaw drivers are seen harassing Thomas Simte and the Uber bike driver. The rickshaw drivers are aggressively pulling at Simte’s backpack and demanding that he cancel his Uber ride. In the clip, Simte repeatedly asks the drivers why they are harassing him and suggests that if people want to use Uber, they should be free to do so. He even offers directions to the nearest police station, emphasizing that passengers should have the freedom to choose their mode of transportation.
As the video progresses, the situation escalates. The Uber bike driver and Simte are subjected to verbal abuse and threats. At one point, another person tries to slap Simte, and the video abruptly ends when someone smacks his camera.
Getting harassed if we take bikes or Auto, instead of the regular rickshaw. This happened to me in Indiranagar Metro station pic.twitter.com/yjhMApEBGq
— Thomas Simte (@Thomasandwords)Simte expressed his frustration in a follow-up post, stating that such harassment happens daily and calling for stricter action against those who mistreat Uber riders and drivers. He highlighted the absence of traffic police at the scene and urged for increased safety measures near auto-rickshaw stands.
The video caught the attention of Bengaluru City Police, who responded by asking Simte to provide his contact details through direct message for further assistance. They advised contacting #Namma 112 in case of emergencies. Uber India also responded, expressing concern and prioritizing passenger safety. They requested Simte to share his Uber account details so their safety team could address the issue.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion on social media, with users urging immediate police action against the perpetrators visible in the video.
Also Read: Viral Photo: Van Gogh-inspired auto rickshaw takes social media by storm
Read Exclusive COVID-19 Coronavirus News updates, at MyNation.