The Bengaluru police have initiated a search operation to apprehend a bike taxi driver who allegedly sexually harassed a woman activist. The incident came to light after the victim posted about her ordeal on social media, prompting the Bengaluru Police Department to direct the S.J. Park police station to investigate the matter.
The incident occurred on a Friday when the woman activist attended a Manipur violence protest at Town Hall Bengaluru. After facing several auto cancellations while trying to find a ride back home, she opted for a bike taxi using the Rapido bike app. However, upon arrival, the driver informed her that the registered bike was under servicing and they would use a different bike for the ride.
During the journey, they reached a secluded area with no other vehicles around, where the driver began riding with one hand and engaged in inappropriate behavior, reportedly masturbating while driving the bike. Fearful for her safety, the victim remained silent throughout the ordeal. She asked the driver to drop her off 300 meters away from her actual destination to protect her home location. Once the ride concluded, the driver persistently called and messaged her on WhatsApp, leading her to block his number to stop the harassment.
Expressing concern, the woman activist questioned the safety measures taken by the Rapido bike app and emphasized that user safety should be a top priority. She urged the company to ensure that people registered with their service can be trusted for a safe travel experience, as the accused driver continued to contact her from different numbers even after the incident.
In response to the victim’s social media post, the Bengaluru police assured her that they have informed the S. J. Park police station to take the necessary action in this matter. The police have taken up the investigation to apprehend the accused bike taxi driver and address the serious allegations of sexual harassment made by the brave woman activist.
