All major aggregator apps barred me...Bengaluru auto driver released from custody after allegations of abuse

In a recent turn of events, Bengaluru auto driver Muthuraj, who had been detained following allegations of slapping a woman passenger, has been released from police custody. Muthuraj refuted the accusations, asserting that he only seized the woman's phone to prevent her from calling the authorities.

Accusations and rebuttals

During an interview with the YouTube channel Auto Ratha Saradhi, Muthuraj admitted that while he should not have taken the woman’s phone, he did not hit her as alleged. "I accept my mistake as I should not have grabbed her phone. But I did not slap the woman as she claimed in the video and I only grabbed the phone to stop her calling the cops. It happened in a spur of the moment," Muthuraj stated.

Consequences and support

Following the incident, Muthuraj faced significant repercussions. All major aggregator apps, including Ola and Uber, have barred him from their platforms. Additionally, he reported receiving threatening calls from unknown individuals. "Soon after the incident happened, all aggregator apps like Ola and Uber blocked me. I received calls from unknown people who said they would finish me. What I had done was a mistake, and I am facing legal challenges for it, but people should understand how tough the life of auto drivers becomes if they do not meet their daily targets," Muthuraj explained.

🛺📢ATTENTION📢🛺

Do listen to Bengaluru Auto Driver's Version of what happened on that day.

Always decide after knowing both side stories.

A narrative is being built that he assualted the girl which is absolutely false.

Listen and share maximum

VC: Karnataka Auto Sarathi pic.twitter.com/vezxCdfC00

— 👑Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ🇮🇳💛❤️ (@ChekrishnaCk) September 15, 2024

Despite the turmoil, Muthuraj expressed gratitude towards those who financially supported him to cover his legal expenses. "I received financial support from a lot of people and I thank them for understanding my side of the story. As a common man, I have no idea how to proceed with the legal troubles. I will meet the auto unions and see what can be done in my capacity," he added.

What is the incident all about?

The controversy began earlier this month when a woman accused Muthuraj of slapping her after she cancelled a ride. She also shared a video showing the driver verbally abusing her for canceling one of two booked autos. The Bengaluru police quickly intervened, urging the public to dial 112 in similar situations.

Kalesh b/w Two Ladies and Auto Driver over Cancelling the Ride in Namma Bengaluru KA (Auto-Driver was angry after ride was Cancelled)
pic.twitter.com/Wfb7WvDLKL

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) September 5, 2024