An auto driver in Bengaluru, Muthuraj, who was arrested last week for allegedly abusing a woman passenger, has become the center of an unexpected online controversy. Despite being accused of assault, a section of social media users are rallying behind him, offering to crowdfund his legal expenses, which reportedly amount to Rs 30,000. This gesture of support, however, has ignited a heated debate, with many questioning the morality of raising funds for an alleged abuser.The sympathy for Muthuraj stems from the argument that the financial burden of his legal fees is too high. A social media user named Mohan Dasari voiced his concerns, saying, I know its frustration that made him react like that. Four days in jail is enough punishment, but the Rs 30,000 legal fee is too much for someone who lost his income. I will donate Rs 1000 and hope others help him with bail.Dasaris post received backing from a few other users, with some offering to contribute to Muthurajs legal fund.One supporter remarked, Let us know if Kannadigas can raise 30k for the auto driver. I will contribute 1k. He deserved the jail time for his behavior, but the costs are too high during this inflation period.However, the crowdfunding initiative has been met with significant backlash. Many users expressed outrage, questioning the ethics of supporting someone accused of abusing women. A user named Sid voiced his disapproval: So Kannada warriors are crowdfunding for a criminal who assaulted a young student Justifying such actions with regional pride is alarming!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, 2024Muthuraj was arrested after a video of him verbally abusing and physically assaulting a woman passenger went viral. The incident reportedly occurred when the woman canceled her ride after a delay, which led to a confrontation. Bengaluru police arrested Muthuraj on the same day.
