After woman faces abuse over auto ride, others reveal similar incidents

NT, Bengaluru: Bengaluru has seen a surge in complaints regarding harassment in public transport, with a recent incident involving a woman being abused by an auto driver after cancelling a ride, sparking widespread concern. This issue extends beyond autorickshaws, with reports of similar misconduct by bus conductors emerging, raising questions about the overall safety of public transport in the city. In response to the growing concerns, Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) (www.btp.gov.in) have urged citizens to report such incidents. “People should come forward and tell us about these issues. Only then can we take action and ensure their safety,” said Deputy Commissioner of Traffic Police, Kuldeep Jain, while speaking to News Trail. He assured the public that the police is committed to providing full protection.

The incident that drew attention to this issue, involved 24-year-old software engineer Shruti Rao, who cancelled a ride through the Uber app. “The driver called me multiple times, and when I finally answered, he started abusing me. It was shocking and scary,” Shruti shared. Despite reporting the issue, the incident left her feeling unsafe. Shruti’s experience is not an isolated case. Shalini, a college student, recalled a troubling interaction with a bus conductor. “He kept making inappropriate comments when I refused to move seats, even though there was no need. When I confronted him, he just laughed it off, leaving me feeling completely helpless,” she said. The problem of harassment in public transport seems to be widespread, as Priya Rao, a college professor, highlighted. “I have seen bus conductors purposefully brushing against women in crowded buses. It is like we are expected to just accept it as normal. It is infuriating that there is no one to hold them accountable,” Priya remarked, emphasizing the pervasiveness of such misconduct. While women are often the primary victims, men have also reported incidents of aggression and intimidation within the city’s transport system.

Karan Mehta, a marketing executive, shared his experience with an aggressive auto driver after a fare dispute. “When I tried to explain my point, the driver got angry and threatened to track me down. It is not just women who face this kind of behavior; anyone can be a target,” Karan said. S i m i l a rly, R a h u l Varma, a software engineer, described a humiliating encounter with a bus conductor. “I asked him about the fare difference, and instead of answering, he berated me in front of everyone on the bus. The experience was embarrassing,” Rahul shared. Harshal Jain, a college student, recounted his own experience of being intimidated by an auto driver. “I asked him why the fare was so high, and the driver got aggressive, even physically trying to block my way when I wanted to leave,” Harshal explained. Despite the frequency of such incidents, many people feel powerless to act. “It happens to so many of us, but nothing changes. Reporting these incidents feels pointless,” said Adhya Suresh, a student.

Varsha Nagesh, a resident of Whitefield, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the lack of accountability in Bengaluru’s public transport system. “Even when we report such cases, it rarely results in action,” Varsha said. Meanwhile, the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has promised reforms. “We understand the seriousness of these issues and are working to ensure better safety,” said a senior official.