‘Bhikhari Ki Aulad’: Rapido Driver Abuses Mumbai Techie Over Extra Charge, Company Issues Apology
A Mumbai-based tech professional, Ohshin Bhat, recently faced a disturbing incident involving a Rapido cab driver who allegedly overcharged, abused, and threatened her. The incident highlights ongoing concerns over driver behavior and passenger safety in the ride-hailing industry.
Ohshin booked a ride via Rapido’s Economy service, known for affordable fares using smaller hatchbacks. Instead, a Premium sedan, typically associated with higher charges, arrived. The driver, who appeared to list his car under both categories, demanded an additional fare. When Ohshin refused, the driver resorted to verbal abuse and threats.
The Altercation: Abuse and Threats
According to screenshots shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the driver sent threatening messages such as, “Cancel kar do varna pel dunga khade khade” (Cancel the ride or I will beat you up) and hurled insults like “Bhikhari ki aulad” (child of a beggar). He also mocked her financial choices, saying, “Saste me chahiye paidal ja” (If you want it cheap, walk).
i booked rapido economy and got a premium car(the driver has put economy type from his end to get more rides)
— ohshin (@ohshinbhat) December 19, 2024
he asked me to pay extra as his car is premium, i denied and told him to cancel so hit me with the classic: pic.twitter.com/RUE0KK09jR
Feeling unsafe, Ohshin canceled the ride and opted for an Uber. Eventually, the Rapido driver canceled the ride himself.
Rapido Responds
We fully understand the seriousness of this matter, and we deeply apologize for the captain's unprofessional behavior. As requested earlier, kindly share the ride details via DM so that we can prioritize taking action against the captain and provide you with an update. (1/2)
— Rapido Cares (@RapidoCares) December 19, 2024
In response, Rapido apologized publicly, stating, “We deeply apologize for the captain’s unprofessional behavior. Kindly share the ride details via DM so that we can prioritize action against the captain and provide updates.”
The incident, which quickly went viral, sparked outrage on social media. Many users criticized Rapido’s driver management and shared similar experiences, raising questions about safety protocols and driver training in the ride-hailing industry.
Growing Concerns in the Ride-Hailing Sector
This episode adds to a series of complaints about inappropriate driver behavior in the ride-hailing sector. While services like Rapido, Uber, and Ola have revolutionized commuting, ensuring passenger safety and professionalism remains a challenge. Companies are increasingly under pressure to improve driver vetting processes and enforce stricter behavior standards.
For Ohshin, the experience was a stark reminder of the risks associated with such services. As the demand for ride-hailing grows, incidents like these highlight the need for better oversight and accountability to ensure safe and respectful experiences for passengers.
