In Bengaluru’s Jayanagar locality, a woman was allegedly assaulted by a Rapido bike taxi driver following a heated argument over rash driving. The incident, which happened on June 14, was recorded by a passerby and has since gone viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage and calls for action.

The confrontation began after the woman reportedly ended her ride early and confronted the driver for jumping a signal and reckless riding near a footwear showroom. Miscommunication further escalated tensions as the woman, who spoke only English, struggled to communicate with the driver who spoke only Kannada.

As the disagreement intensified, the woman allegedly refused to return the helmet and pay the fare. The driver responded by slapping her, causing her to fall to the ground. Despite multiple bystanders witnessing the altercation, no one intervened. The viral video shows both individuals attempting to engage with onlookers before the assault occurs.

According to police sources, the woman was hesitant to file a complaint but was later persuaded to proceed. A Non-Cognizable Report (NCR) was registered. Officials have since confirmed that the video is being reviewed and the case may be converted into a First Information Report (FIR).

Police Launches Investigation in the Matter

The Jayanagar Police Station, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, has launched a detailed investigation into the matter. “We are collecting video evidence and questioning those involved,” a senior officer said.

This isn’t the first time ride-hailing drivers have been in the spotlight for violence. In September last year, a woman was allegedly assaulted by an Ola auto driver in Bengaluru after canceling her booking. A video from that incident showed the driver yelling, “Terabaapdetahaikya gas ke paise?” before attempting to take her phone. He was arrested after fleeing the scene.

Earlier this year in April, another woman detailed her terrifying experience with an Ola cab driver during a late-night ride from Kempegowda International Airport. In a now-viral post on X (formerly Twitter), she claimed the driver behaved inappropriately, played loud music, and made her feel extremely unsafe during the ride.

Amid rising concerns over passenger safety, especially for women, the latest incident comes as Karnataka enforces a High Court ban on bike taxi services. The court had directed the state government to suspend such operations due to regulatory gaps and illegal commercial usage of two-wheelers.

Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said:

“Three months back, the court decided bike taxis were illegal. They had given six weeks. Again, on their request, they have given six more weeks. Now, 12 weeks are over, and they (aggregators) must follow the High Court’s order.”

Following the directive, leading bike taxi aggregator Rapido has disabled its services in Karnataka. The app now shows only a “bike parcel” option for users in the state. A message on the app reads:

“Starting June 16, 2025, our Bike Taxi services in Karnataka will be paused in compliance with recent High Court orders… We remain committed to the communities we serve and hopeful for a future where convenient, affordable mobility is accessible to all.”

Bike taxis have played a major role in Bengaluru’s urban transport network. Rapido alone accounts for 60% of the market, handling 16.5 lakh rides per day and employing over 1.5 lakh gig workers across the state. The ban has left thousands of workers uncertain about their livelihoods.

As investigations continue, police have urged citizens to report similar misconduct. Meanwhile, the incident has reignited the debate over rider safety and the accountability of gig economy platforms operating in India.