Bengaluru: A woman in Bengaluru has alleged that a cab driver attempted to sexually assault her on Deepavali night on October 21, 2025, and that despite filing a complaint the very next day, she has received no clarity from the police for months regarding the progress of the case. The allegation, shared through a video posted on Instagram, has sparked fresh debate on women’s safety, police communication, and accountability in handling cases of sexual offences in the city.

The woman, whose identity has been withheld for privacy reasons, said the incident occurred when she was returning home late at night in a cab. According to her account, what was meant to be a routine ride turned into a traumatic experience that continues to affect her mental and physical well-being.

Alleged incident on Deepavali night

In the video shared on social media, the woman recounted that the cab driver suddenly stopped the vehicle mid-journey, claiming that there was a technical issue with the car. She alleged that after stopping the vehicle, the driver stepped out briefly, then entered the back seat where she was seated.

The woman claimed that the driver appeared to be intoxicated and attempted to sexually assault her. She said he tried to restrain her, creating a terrifying situation inside the vehicle. “He suddenly got into the back seat and tried to hold me,” she said in her statement.

She further alleged that she managed to push him away using all her strength, opened the door, and jumped out of the vehicle. Crying for help, she ran onto the street in a state of panic. According to her, the driver chased her briefly, but stopped when passersby intervened.

Help from strangers, safe return home

The woman said a two-wheeler rider and another woman noticed her distress and immediately came to her aid. The bystanders allegedly confronted the situation and ensured her safety. She said one of them later dropped her home safely.

In her video, the woman expressed gratitude to the strangers who helped her that night, stating that without their timely intervention, the outcome could have been far worse.

Complaint filed, but no updates claimed

According to the woman, she approached the police the very next day and filed a formal complaint against the cab driver. She also recorded her statement before a court on November 11, 2025.

However, she alleged that since then, there has been no communication from the police regarding the status of the investigation. “After November 11, I have no update at all. I don’t know what is happening with my case,” she said.

The woman said the lack of information and prolonged silence from authorities has added to her distress. She claimed that repeated attempts to seek clarity on the progress of the case did not yield any clear response.

Trauma and lasting impact

In her social media post, the woman spoke candidly about the emotional and psychological toll the incident has taken on her. She said the episode caused her severe stress, health issues, and long-term trauma.

“This incident has traumatised me a lot. It has affected my health and my sense of safety. I now live with a constant fear of using cabs or auto-rickshaws in the city,” she said.

Women’s rights activists say such experiences underline the need not only for swift investigation but also for sensitive communication with survivors. “Silence and lack of updates can retraumatise survivors. Regular communication is crucial,” said a city-based women’s rights advocate.

Police response to allegations

Responding to allegations of inaction, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), North West Division, said that the police had acted promptly and that the investigation is nearing completion.

“An FIR was registered on the same day the complaint was filed. The investigation is in its final stage and the chargesheet will be filed soon,” the DCP said.

The officer also revealed that on the day of the incident, the cab driver had approached the police first and filed a complaint, alleging that there was an altercation between him and the passenger. Police are said to be examining both versions of events as part of the probe.

Legal process underway

The DCP confirmed that the woman’s statement has been recorded in court under Section 193 and that the chargesheet is currently being finalised. Officials said all relevant evidence, including statements and technical details, has been examined as part of the investigation.

Police sources indicated that once the chargesheet is filed, further legal proceedings will follow as per law.

Broader concerns over women’s safety

The case has once again brought focus on women’s safety in app-based cab services and the need for stricter monitoring of drivers. Safety experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of background verification, real-time monitoring, panic buttons, and swift police response.

Activists have also called on law enforcement agencies to ensure transparency and timely updates to survivors of sexual violence. “Justice is not just about filing a chargesheet; it is also about making the survivor feel heard and supported,” a legal expert noted.

Conclusion

While the police maintain that the investigation is in its final stage, the woman’s allegations of prolonged silence highlight the gap between procedural progress and survivor communication. As the case moves closer to the filing of a chargesheet, it has reignited discussions on accountability, sensitivity, and systemic reforms needed to ensure that survivors of sexual assault feel protected and informed throughout the legal process.