RTO Seizes Rickshaw After Driver Assaults 12-Year-Old Boy Over ₹50 Unpaid Fare – Action Taken
RTO seized a rickshaw in Delhi-NCR after the driver brutally assaulted a 12-year-old boy over an unpaid ₹50 fare. Authorities take strict action against misconduct
MUMBAI: A video of an autorickshaw driver slapping a minor passenger in the middle of a busy road has prompted swift action from the Andheri Regional Transport Office (RTO), which seized the driver’s vehicle on Monday and initiated proceedings that could lead to suspension of his licence and permit.
The viral clip, widely shared on social media over the weekend, shows the driver forcing the boy out of his rickshaw near Andheri railway station and striking him repeatedly as passersby watched. The incident has sparked outrage online, with several users demanding strict punishment for the driver and stronger safeguards for passengers.
Acting on the footage, the Andheri RTO seized the autorickshaw and issued a notice to the driver. “We have asked him to explain why his driving licence should not be revoked and his permit suspended for assaulting a passenger. This is a serious case of misconduct and violence,” said an RTO officer.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, authorities have the power to suspend or cancel a driver’s licence in cases of passenger harassment, assault, or unsafe conduct.
The DN Nagar police traced the driver and summoned him for questioning. However, officials clarified that no formal complaint has been lodged by the victim or his family so far.
During interrogation, the driver reportedly told RTO officials that the altercation stemmed from a dispute over unpaid fare. He claimed the boy had travelled from Santacruz to Andheri railway station, ran up a fare of ₹140, and then refused to pay because he was intoxicated. “According to the driver, the passenger refused to pay and abused him. He admitted to hitting the boy, which was captured on video,” said an RTO official.
However, the video suggests the ride may have been shared, with other passengers seated inside the auto, raising questions over the driver’s version of events. Officials said they are verifying the details of the trip, including whether the rickshaw was illegally ferrying multiple passengers.
The clip shows the driver slapping the boy three to four times after pushing him onto the road. The assault has drawn widespread condemnation online, with many arguing that regardless of the fare dispute, the driver’s violent behaviour towards a minor is unacceptable.
In a shocking incident that has sparked widespread outrage, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) seized a rickshaw after its driver was caught assaulting a 12-year-old boy over an alleged unpaid fare of just ₹50. The disturbing episode highlights not only the vulnerability of children in public spaces but also the urgent need for stricter regulation of public transport operators.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident took place in a busy marketplace where the boy had reportedly hired a rickshaw for a short ride. When he failed to produce the fare, the driver allegedly became aggressive and physically assaulted the minor in full public view. Shocked passersby quickly intervened, rescuing the boy and informing local authorities about the driver’s violent conduct.
Videos of the assault, captured on mobile phones, quickly spread across social media platforms, fueling public anger and prompting swift action by law enforcement agencies and the RTO.
Acting on complaints and media reports, the Regional Transport Office conducted an inquiry and immediately seized the rickshaw involved in the incident. Officials stated that the driver’s license and registration details are being reviewed, and further penalties may include cancellation of his permit and a permanent ban on operating commercial vehicles.
“Public transport drivers are expected to ensure passenger safety at all times. Assaulting a minor over an unpaid fare is unacceptable. We have seized the vehicle and initiated strict action against the driver.”
The police have registered a case against the rickshaw driver under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including charges of assault and cruelty against a minor. He has been taken into custody for questioning, and officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to determine if he has a prior record of misconduct.
Child rights activists have urged authorities to press for stringent punishment, emphasizing that violence against children cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation from parents, activists, and commuters. Many expressed concern over the lack of accountability among certain public transport operators. Social media platforms were flooded with comments demanding strict background checks and regular monitoring of rickshaw drivers, especially since they frequently ferry school children and minors.
Local residents have also urged authorities to establish a helpline for passengers to report cases of harassment, overcharging, or misconduct by drivers.
Experts say this case underscores the urgent need for reforms in India’s public transport system. Rickshaw drivers often operate in unregulated conditions, with minimal oversight of their conduct or mental fitness for the job. Introducing mandatory behavioral training, background verification, and awareness programs could significantly improve passenger safety.
According to child safety organizations, at least one in three incidents of harassment in public transport involves minors, highlighting the pressing need for preventive measures.
