In a shocking and appalling turn of events, a group of autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru have displayed a complete disregard for law and order, placing public safety at risk. These drivers, affiliated with autorickshaw unions, have resorted to violent acts, launching an attack on the Rapido office and vandalizing autorickshaws. To make matters worse, they shamelessly recorded their destructive actions and shared them on social media, proudly flaunting their disregard for society’s well-being. This distressing incident unfolded during broad daylight in a bustling market, shedding light on the extreme measures these drivers are willing to take to preserve their outdated monopoly and quash any semblance of competition.
The catalyst for this atrocious rampage was Rapido’s admirable commitment to passenger safety. By installing seat belts in their autorickshaws, Rapido sought to ensure the well-being of riders and passengers. Rather than applauding and supporting this laudable initiative, the autorickshaw unions responded with unbridled rage and violence. Their irrational behavior stems from a fear of change and an unwillingness to adapt to the evolving needs of the city’s residents.
For some time now, the autorickshaw unions have harbored animosity towards bike-taxis in Bengaluru, resenting the increasing popularity these services enjoy among the masses. The recent incident further showcases the unions’ audacity and utter disregard for law and order, as they vehemently oppose any alternative mode of transportation that offers regulated, convenient, and affordable services to the public. It is disheartening to witness these unions prioritize their self-interests over the well-being and convenience of the city’s commuters.
In response to the attack, a petitioner named Mr. Reddy Prasad filed a formal complaint at the HSR Layout police station, meticulously detailing the wanton acts of vandalism committed by the Bengaluru Sarati Sena, an autorickshaw union. He told police that the company was doing a csr program on road safety with auto drivers who operate on our App. As part of that initiative, we were distributing seat belts, rain curtains for autos and charging points. During the activity few members of bangalore sarathi sene auto union, forcefully entered the campaign activity and started threatening the company employees. The employees were beaten and threatened for life. Thereafter the said mob of auto union stole the seat belts, auto side curtains and chargers from our employees custody.
Shockingly, the assailants not only destroyed autorickshaw property but also shamelessly looted side curtains and seat belts, without any concern for the legal repercussions of their actions. Furthermore, they brazenly flaunted their misdeeds on social media, openly challenging the authority of the police and the rule of law.
This incident is just the latest in a series of incidents where autorickshaw drivers have taken the law into their own hands in Bengaluru. Despite the presence of live-streamed evidence and ample documentation, the police have inexplicably failed to promptly apprehend the perpetrators. The lingering inaction of law enforcement agencies, even after a span of 24 hours, casts serious doubt on their commitment to upholding law and order in the city.
The recent attack by autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru represents a distressing trend of lawlessness and intimidation. Motivated by a fear of competition and an unwavering desire to maintain their dominance, these drivers pose a significant threat to the safety and progress of the city. It is imperative that the authorities take immediate and resolute action against these individuals, ensuring that such acts of violence are not only condemned but swiftly met with justice. The people of Bengaluru deserve a safe and efficient public transportation system that places their well-being above the vested interests of a few unruly individuals.
