I'll skin you alive: inDrive rider calls, sends obscene video, vile threats to Kolkata doctor over cancellation | VIDEO

West Bengal News: In a distressing incident, Anismita Basu, a medical professional, experienced severe harassment after canceling a ride booked through the inDrive app. The driver’s unprofessional response escalated quickly, causing deep concern over the safety measures and accountability standards in place within ride-hailing services. After canceling due to the driver’s delay, Basu was met with repeated phone calls and further harassment, turning a simple cancellation into a disturbing ordeal.

Repeated calls and threatening behavior

Following the cancellation, the driver called Basu 17 times, each attempt more aggressive than the last. The situation further deteriorated when the driver sent an obscene video via WhatsApp. In subsequent calls, he reportedly used vulgar language, issued threats, and warned, “If I see you in the area, I'll skin you alive.” This level of intimidation has sparked widespread anger and calls for accountability.

🚨 Today evening a fellow Doctor, Anismita Basu booked a bike through inDrive app. Due to the driver's delay, she cancelled the booking. What followed was shocking:
🚨The driver called 17 times, harassing her.
🚨Sent an obscene video on WhatsApp.
🚨Called again, using… pic.twitter.com/rnSvLtzjRL

— Dr. Abhinaba Pal (@abhinabavlogs) November 1, 2024

inDrive’s indifferent response

Upon reaching out to inDrive for assistance, Basu encountered a dismissive response from the company. Their representative merely promised that someone would contact her soon, displaying what many have condemned as an irresponsible and indifferent reaction to a serious safety concern. Public outrage has mounted, with critics pointing to the need for stricter safety measures and immediate action in such situations.

Demands for stringent background checks and justice

The incident has reignited demands for ride-hailing services to conduct thorough background checks on their drivers and to put measures in place that prioritize passenger safety. The threatening tone used by the driver, referencing “another RGKar incident”—a menacing allusion to an attack that took place at RG Kar Hospital—has alarmed the public, fueling a call for exemplary punishment and stronger regulatory oversight.

Raising awareness and pushing for change

This harrowing experience has sparked wider conversations about safety in public transportation services and the mindset of some drivers, which can lead to incidents like these. Advocates are pushing for reforms to ensure such incidents are not repeated, calling on ride-hailing companies like inDrive to implement stringent vetting processes and penalties for driver misconduct. Basu’s experience has become a rallying point for those seeking a safer, more just transportation environment.