Bengaluru: A video capturing an argument between an autorickshaw driver and a woman passenger over a ride-booking issue has gone viral, stirring a debate among netizens. The incident, involving driver Pavan Kumar, took place in Bengaluru and showcases a heated exchange regarding alleged double booking of autorickshaw rides.
The Incident
The video, recorded by Pavan Kumar, shows him confronting the woman, accusing her of booking two autorickshaws simultaneously using different apps—Ola and Rapido. The driver alleged that she cancelled his ride after opting for another autorickshaw.
In the video, the woman denies the accusations, stating that she merely compared rates on the apps and completed only one booking. She claimed that the driver’s confusion might have stemmed from a technical glitch in the app.
A lady books two autos when both arrived and waited for a while she cancelled one auto.
When driver confronted her asked why she did like this as it causes difficulty for auto drivers then she hurled abuses at him. @BlrCityPolice pic.twitter.com/kO5b1O9Q7j
— 👑Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ🇮🇳💛❤️ (@ChekrishnaCk) November 15, 2024
“Why are you harassing me? I only checked prices and booked one ride. If you received a call, it’s an app problem,” the woman argued. However, the situation escalated as the woman hurled abuses at the driver, calling him “mad” and recording the autorickshaw’s details to report the matter to her father.
Social Media Reactions
The incident has sparked a mixed response online, with users divided over who was at fault. Some netizens criticised the driver for filming the woman and escalating the situation. They argued that comparing ride prices and cancelling bookings is a common consumer behaviour and not unlawful.
Others, however, pointed out the inappropriate language used by the woman during the confrontation. One user remarked, “These auto guys cancel rides after keeping us waiting for 5-10 minutes; isn’t that okay? Now, when the same thing happens to them, they’re making videos.”
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the often tense interactions between passengers and autorickshaw drivers in urban areas, particularly with the rise of app-based ride services. As both drivers and passengers navigate challenges like cancellations and pricing, disputes such as these bring attention to the need for improved communication and better app functionalities to avoid misunderstandings.
While the video continues to circulate widely, sparking debates over consumer rights and driver behaviour, it underscores the need for mutual respect and resolution in such conflicts.