A Bengaluru resident recently shared a troubling encounter with an app-based auto driver who allegedly threatened violence during a fare dispute, highlighting safety concerns for commuters.

The passenger booked the ride from his college to his residence. While the journey seemed normal, the situation escalated at the drop-off point. The driver demanded ₹338, contradicting the ₹256 fare displayed on the passenger’s app. When questioned, the driver refused to show his app, instead presenting an alternate image of a higher fare. Noticing that the ride hadn’t officially ended on his phone, the passenger continued to press for clarification.

This led to the driver reportedly turning aggressive, threatening to slap the passenger and using foul language, particularly targeting him for not knowing Kannada. Intimidated by the confrontation, the passenger reluctantly paid the inflated fare. Shockingly, the driver ended the trip about 30 minutes later and 2.4 km away from the actual destination, raising concerns about fare tampering.

The victim expressed hesitation in filing a formal complaint, citing safety risks and lack of redressal mechanisms.

Reddit users reacted strongly, sharing similar stories and offering cautionary advice. Many suggested avoiding confrontations, ensuring drop-offs at public locations rather than one’s home, and later raising complaints through official channels. Some users recounted how drivers harassed them post-trip, emphasizing the importance of privacy and personal safety.

This incident underscores growing apprehensions around accountability in ride-hailing services.