A recent confrontation between an auto rickshaw driver and a passenger in Bengaluru has sparked a social media debate after a video of the heated exchange went viral. The incident occurred when an auto driver confronted a woman over allegedly booking two rides at the same time and cancelling one, a practice which is allowed by the Ola ride-hailing app.
In the video, the auto driver approaches the woman, asking if she had cancelled his ride in favor of another auto. The driver, visibly upset, says, “How can you book two autos simultaneously, madam? I have been waiting here for a long time, and now you’ve cancelled and got into another auto. What are you doing to auto drivers?”
The woman, however, denied the accusation and angrily responded, claiming she did not book two autos. “I just checked prices in two different autos and booked one. If you get a call, then it is an app problem. Please leave and do not harass me,” she said while raising her voice. She also attempted to throw a punch at the driver in frustration.
The situation escalated further when the woman began using abusive language and began recording the confrontation. She was also heard speaking to her father on the phone, explaining the situation and noting down the auto driver’s details.
As the video circulated on social media, many users expressed differing opinions. Some sided with the woman, arguing that cancellation is a standard feature provided by the app, and customers should not be blamed for using it. One commenter wrote, “When a company gives a cancellation feature in its app, why blame customers for using that? Blame drivers too, when they cancel. Or let the company collect booking charges and give them to the other party. If auto guys were listening to customers, Ola/Uber would not have flourished.”
Others, however, condemned the woman’s behavior, particularly her use of abusive language and the physical altercation. One user pointed out, “While cancelling an auto ride is not an offense, using such words and hitting someone is. I hope the police investigate this and take appropriate action soon.”
This incident highlights the growing tension between ride-hailing drivers and passengers, as well as the challenges drivers face with cancellations, which often lead to financial losses. It also raises questions about the ethical implications of using app-based features like ride cancellation.
While the video continues to spark discussions online, the question remains: how can ride-hailing companies and drivers better address these frequent conflicts in a manner that ensures fair treatment for all parties involved? Authorities are yet to comment on any formal investigations into the matter.
Sources By Agencies
