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Incident Overview

In Bengaluru, a rider associated with the ride-sharing service Rapido was caught on camera slapping a female passenger following a heated argument over reckless driving. The police reported this incident on Monday, stating that it occurred on June 13 when the woman, who works at a jewelry store in Jayanagar, was en route to her workplace.

According to the police, the woman exited the vehicle due to the driver's alleged careless driving, leading to a fierce exchange between them.

The Altercation

Driver Slaps Woman, Causing Her to Fall

The woman reportedly refused to pay her fare and return her helmet. When contacted, Rapido declined to comment, stating it was a matter for the police. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media, showing the motorcycle driver striking the woman with such force that she fell to the ground.

New Evidence Emerges

A new CCTV footage has surfaced, showing the woman attempting to hit the motorcycle rider. A senior police official mentioned that they are investigating the allegations and reviewing all related videos and CCTV footage. Both the woman and the motorcycle rider were brought to the Jayanagar police station after the incident came to light.

The police noted that the woman claimed the rider was driving recklessly and running red lights.

Initial Lack of Complaint

Initially, the woman did not file a complaint with the police. After the altercation, when asked about the incident, a dispute ensued, resulting in the slap. Despite being advised, she initially refused to file a complaint. However, the police recorded a non-cognizable report (NCR) and later issued her a notice to file a formal complaint for further investigation.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Lokesh B Jaglase stated that a case has been registered against the accused bike taxi driver under the Indian Penal Code based on the woman's complaint.

Details of the Incident

Woman Files Detailed Complaint

After the FIR was registered, the woman elaborated on the incident, expressing that she felt the ride was unsafe. She told reporters that the driver was not using Google Maps and was taking her on an alternate route. When she asked him to stop at Jayanagar Third Block, he failed to take the necessary U-turn at the signal, prompting her to question his driving.

Language Dispute Arises

She alleged that the driver questioned her behavior, stating that if she didn't understand Kannada, she should leave the country. She clarified that she did not hit him but held onto his shirt collar for self-defense. The driver then slapped her, causing her to fall, after which she retaliated in self-defense.

Driver's Response

The driver released a video explaining his side of the story, claiming that the woman was demanding him to stop the motorcycle. He stated that he asked her to wait a moment and stopped about 100 meters from her office. He recounted that she questioned his educational qualifications and driving skills, which led to a heated exchange.

He asserted that she attacked him first, and despite bystanders advising him not to retaliate, he felt provoked by her actions.

Ongoing Investigation

The police are continuing their investigation into the matter, and the motorcycle driver has yet to file a complaint.

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