Bengaluru: A heated argument between a couple travelling in a cab near Kempegowda International Airport triggered panic among commuters after the vehicle was seen taking a sharp turn while its rear door remained wide open. The incident, which occurred close to a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) checkpoint, was captured on video by a motorist travelling behind the cab and has since gone viral on social media, prompting the police to launch an inquiry.
Viral video causes alarm among commuters
The video clip shows the cab suddenly swerving left on the airport road with its rear door open, creating a potentially dangerous situation for other road users. In the footage, the woman seated in the rear appears to be using her leg to keep the door ajar, while the vehicle continues to move forward.
The unusual sight of a moving car with an open door immediately drew the attention of nearby commuters, many of whom slowed down in confusion and concern. The sudden manoeuvre, coupled with the proximity to the airport security zone, heightened anxiety among motorists on the busy stretch.
Dispute inside vehicle led to risky situation
According to preliminary information shared by the police, the incident stemmed from a domestic argument between the couple travelling in the cab. During the altercation, the woman allegedly demanded that the driver stop the vehicle immediately and opened the rear door in protest.
Police sources said the husband, who was also inside the cab, reportedly instructed the driver to continue driving, leading to a tense situation inside the moving vehicle. The disagreement escalated to the point where the open door posed a clear safety risk, both to the occupants of the cab and to other road users.
Cab halts near CISF checkpoint
The cab eventually came to a halt near a CISF checkpoint close to the airport perimeter. As seen in the video, a biker who had been following the vehicle pulled over and confronted the driver in an aggressive manner, questioning the reckless driving and the decision to continue moving with the door open.
The confrontation attracted the attention of CISF personnel stationed at the checkpoint. A CISF official intervened promptly, assessed the situation and helped calm those involved, preventing the matter from escalating further.
Police take note after video goes viral
After the video gained traction on social media platforms, drawing widespread criticism and concern over road safety, the local police took suo motu cognisance of the incident. Officers reviewed the footage and initiated an inquiry to ascertain the sequence of events and identify any violations of traffic or safety norms.
A senior police officer said the incident was the result of a personal dispute and not linked to any security threat. “There was an argument between the couple inside the cab, which led to the woman opening the rear door. The driver eventually stopped the vehicle near the CISF checkpoint. No one was injured,” the officer said.
Non-cognisable case registered
Police confirmed that a non-cognisable report (NCR) has been registered in connection with the incident. This means that while the matter has been officially recorded, no arrests have been made so far, and further action will depend on the outcome of the inquiry.
Officers are examining whether the cab driver violated any provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act by continuing to drive in an unsafe condition. They are also looking into whether any action is warranted against the passengers for endangering public safety.
No injuries, but safety concerns raised
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. However, road safety experts have expressed concern over such behaviour, especially on high-speed corridors leading to critical infrastructure like airports.
Driving with doors open can lead to passengers falling out, collisions with nearby vehicles or two-wheelers, and sudden braking that may cause chain accidents. Authorities have reiterated that disputes inside vehicles should never be allowed to compromise safety on public roads.
Call for responsible behaviour on roads
Traffic police officials have once again urged commuters to remain calm during disagreements and to prioritise safety over personal conflicts. Cab drivers, in particular, have been advised to stop their vehicles at safe locations if passengers create disturbances that could distract the driver or endanger others.
Conclusion
While the incident near the airport ended without physical harm, it has served as a stark reminder of how quickly personal disputes can escalate into public safety hazards. Police have assured that appropriate steps will be taken after the inquiry, and have appealed to citizens to act responsibly to prevent panic and accidents on busy city roads.