A viral social media video by a Delhi woman has triggered widespread discussion and concern after she claimed to have narrowly avoided a possible robbery attempt near a metro station, raising questions about public safety, urban myths and vigilance in the capital.
Incident shared on social media
In the video, the woman recounted an unsettling experience while travelling in an autorickshaw near a Delhi metro station. According to her account, a stranger — described as a woman with her face partially covered — insisted on sharing the auto despite the driver’s initial refusal, claiming she needed to travel only a short distance.
The woman alleged that during the ride, the stranger repeatedly tried to draw her attention to a cloth she was holding, asking whether it had “rust” on it. Sensing something amiss, she said she deliberately avoided making eye contact or looking at the cloth. Shortly after, the stranger asked the driver to stop the auto and got down.
Link to past experience fuels fear
The woman further claimed that her caution stemmed from a past incident involving her father, who she alleged had been “hypnotised” in a similar manner and subsequently robbed. Believing that eye contact or physical interaction could have worsened the situation, she said her alertness may have prevented a serious outcome.
The video was shared on Instagram by the handle namandsis and garnered over 29,000 views within a day, with many users calling the experience “relatable”.
Netizens divided over claims
Social media reactions were sharply divided. Several users shared anecdotes of comparable encounters, attributing them to techniques involving substances like dhatura, allegedly used to disorient victims. Others dismissed the claims as myths or exaggerations, urging people not to spread panic without evidence.
A few users cautioned that such narratives, while alarming, often circulate without verification and can fuel unnecessary fear.
No official confirmation
Times Now and other media outlets have stated they could not independently verify the authenticity of the woman’s claims. Delhi Police have not issued any official statement linking such incidents to organised “hypnosis” crimes.
While the video has reignited conversations around personal safety in public transport, experts advise citizens to remain alert, avoid panic, and rely on verified information rather than viral speculation.