A shocking wave of lawlessness and contempt for public safety recently engulfed Bengaluru, as the city witnessed a horrifying spectacle orchestrated by autorickshaw drivers affiliated with unions. In a brazen display of violence, these drivers mercilessly attacked the Rapido office, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Reports reveal that six Rapido autos were severely damaged, and a staggering fifty autos were forcibly stripped of their seatbelts and rain curtains. To make matters worse, these drivers audaciously showcased their criminal acts on social media, boasting of their rampage as if proud of their wanton disregard for the law. This shocking incident unfolded in broad daylight, right in the heart of a bustling market, shining a harsh spotlight on the dangerous lengths these drivers are willing to go to protect their outdated monopoly and obliterate any semblance of competition.
The catalyst for this appalling display of violence was Rapido’s praiseworthy initiative to enhance passenger safety by installing seat belts in their autorickshaws. One would expect such an endeavor to be met with appreciation and support, as it aimed to safeguard the lives of commuters. However, the autorickshaw unions responded with a disturbing outburst of anger and hostility. Their outdated mindset and unwillingness to embrace change led them to view any alternative as an existential threat to their livelihoods. In this selfish pursuit, they callously disregarded the evolving demands of the city’s residents, who deserve better and safer transportation options.
It is not the first time that the autorickshaw unions have displayed such animosity. They have long harbored resentment towards the increasing popularity of bike-taxis in Bengaluru. Fearful of losing their market share, they consistently exhibit audacity and disdain for law and order. They stubbornly oppose any form of competition, even when presented with alternative transportation modes that offer regulated, convenient, and affordable services to the public. This blatant prioritization of their own self-interests over the well-being and convenience of the city’s commuters is not only disheartening but also deeply concerning.
Following the assault, a petitioner named Mr. Reddy Prasad lodged a formal complaint at the HSR Layout police station, providing evidence of the company’s road safety campaign, which aimed to benefit auto drivers affiliated with Rapido. During the campaign, members of the Bangalore Sarathi Sene auto union forcibly interrupted the activity, threatening and assaulting company employees. They shamelessly looted seat belts, auto side curtains, and chargers while displaying a complete lack of remorse for their actions. The fact that they documented their criminal behavior on social media platforms, brazenly challenging the police and the rule of law, is an affront to the very fabric of society.
This incident is just one of many instances where autorickshaw drivers have taken the law into their own hands in Bengaluru. Despite ample evidence and live-streamed footage, the police have inexplicably failed to take swift action against the perpetrators. The concerning delay of 24 hours in apprehending those responsible raises serious doubts about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to maintaining order in the city.
The recent attack by autorickshaw drivers represents a perilous trend of lawlessness and intimidation that poses a significant threat to the safety and progress of Bengaluru. Motivated by their fear of competition and an unwavering desire to maintain their dominance, these drivers are hindering the city’s development. It is crucial that the authorities respond swiftly and decisively to these acts of violence, ensuring that those responsible are met with the full force of justice. The people of Bengaluru deserve a safe and efficient public transportation system that prioritizes their well-being over the narrow interests of a few unruly individuals.
