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A viral video of an autorickshaw driver slapping a minor in Andheri prompted the RTO to seize the vehicle and initiate possible license suspension.
RTO Seizes Autorickshaw After Viral Incident Involving Minor; Driver’s Licence May Be Suspended
Public Outcry Erupts Over Violent Fare Dispute
On August 26, 2025, a disturbing video surfaced showing an autorickshaw driver near Andheri railway station in Mumbai forcefully removing a minor passenger from his vehicle before striking him multiple times over an alleged unpaid fare. The 16-second clip, which quickly went viral, depicted the boy pleading for mercy as the assault unfolded on a busy road.
Public outrage was swift and widespread. Social media users condemned the driver’s actions as unacceptable, regardless of the fare dispute. Many expressed deep concerns about passenger safety—especially children’s vulnerabilities in public transit.
RTO Acts Promptly: Vehicle Seized, Show-Cause Notice Issued
Prompted by the footage, the Andheri Regional Transport Office (RTO) took immediate action. Authorities seized the autorickshaw and issued a show-cause notice to the driver, demanding an explanation as to why his licence and permit should not be revoked.
According to RTO officials, the Motor Vehicles Act permits the cancellation or suspension of a licence in cases involving harassment, assault, or any violent misconduct towards a passenger. The RTO has emphasized the gravity of the incident as a clear breach of conduct.
Local police from DN Nagar have also stepped in to investigate. Although they have traced the driver and summoned him for questioning, the victim or his family has not yet filed a formal complaint.
Driver’s Account and Investigation Details
During interrogation, the driver claimed the altercation stemmed from a fare dispute. He stated that the boy travelled from Santacruz to Andheri Railway Station, incurring a fare of ₹140, which he allegedly refused to pay—reportedly under the influence of alcohol.
The driver admitted to physically striking the boy but portrayed it as provoked by verbal abuse from the passenger. However, the viral video appears to show multiple passengers in the autorickshaw, raising suspicion about the legality of the ride and whether the driver was carrying more passengers than permitted.
Broader Implications & Calls for Passenger Safety
Eyewitness passivity during the assault—few intervened or assisted the victim despite the public setting—has triggered broader anger and reflection on civic responsibility.
Authorities and activists are calling for stronger passenger protections and accountability mechanisms for transport workers. Discussions have gained traction regarding:
- Clearer penalties for violence against vulnerable passengers
- Better training and vetting for drivers handling minors
- Guarantees that harassment complaints can be lodged easily, even without formal FIRs
The incident also catalyzed a debate on whether the Motor Vehicles Act sufficiently addresses cases of minor-targeted assault or if new regulations are needed.
Next Steps: RTO, Police, and Accountability
- The RTO is reviewing the driver’s explanation and may suspend or cancel his driving licence and autorickshaw permit, depending on its findings.
- The DN Nagar Police continue their probe, supported by the viral footage, though no official charge has yet been registered without a formal complaint.
- Community stakeholders are pressing for mandatory reporting for incidents involving children and enhanced oversight on rickshaw operators.
The shocking slapping of a minor autorickshaw passenger has exposed gaps in oversight, civic reaction, and legal enforcement. While the Andheri RTO and police responded rapidly, this event underscores the urgent need for systemic change—particularly to protect children from harm during everyday commutes.
