A Bengaluru-based IT professional’s routine cab ride spiraled into a frightening encounter when a simple request to switch on the AC led to threats, intimidation, and online harassment.

Fluent in Kannada, the passenger politely asked the driver to turn on the air conditioning, but the request was met with hostility. The driver, visibly irritated, refused outright. When the passenger insisted, tensions escalated. The driver demanded he get out, which he did. However, when asked to cancel the ride, the passenger refused, saying it was the driver’s responsibility.

What followed was a shocking confrontation—the driver allegedly pulled out a small knife from his keychain and advanced toward the passenger. Thinking fast, the techie gestured towards a traffic cop nearby, causing the driver to hesitate. The driver then made a phone call, possibly calling for backup. Sensing the danger, the passenger escaped with the help of a passing auto driver.

Later, he began receiving continuous OTP spam messages, presumably from the driver, who still had access to his phone number. Concerned for his safety, he filed an FIR and reported the driver. The cab company suspended the driver, but the harassment persisted.

The incident sparked outrage online, with users demanding stricter background checks and stronger safety measures. Many shared similar horror stories, urging authorities to act.