In a significant legal action, the Kalyan Regional Transport Office (RTO) has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the global cab aggregator Uber and its local operators. This move comes in the wake of a disturbing incident involving the molestation and attempted robbery of a 26-year-old woman passenger, which has exposed glaring gaps in passenger safety protocols.
The Incident and Police Investigation
The case revolves around a traumatic event where a 19-year-old app-based two-wheeler driver, identified as Siddhesh Pardeshi, allegedly assaulted his female passenger. The victim, who had booked the ride to go to a gym, was instead taken to an isolated location by the driver. It was at this diverted spot that the accused molested the woman and attempted to rob her.
Initially, there was confusion regarding the service provider, with police stating the biker was associated with Rapido. However, on Tuesday, the authorities clarified that the operator involved in this specific case was indeed Uber. This clarification paved the way for the RTO's direct action against the company.
RTO's Charges and Alleged Violations
The FIR lodged by the Kalyan RTO accuses Uber of operating its bike taxi services in the Kalyan region without securing the mandatory permissions from transport authorities. This constitutes a primary violation of local transport laws.
Beyond the permit issue, the RTO's complaint details a series of critical safety failures. The alleged non-compliances highlighted in the FIR include:
- Inadequate driver verification processes.
- Failure to adhere to women's safety guidelines.
- Lapses in providing proper insurance coverage for passengers.
- Not ensuring mandatory helmet usage.
- Lack of compliance with fare regulations.
These points collectively underscore a systemic endangerment of passenger safety, according to the transport office's findings.
Broader Implications for App-Based Transport
This case has triggered serious questions about the operational oversight and accountability of app-based mobility platforms in India. The RTO's decision to register an FIR directly against the aggregator, not just the driver, marks a shift towards holding the parent company responsible for safety breaches occurring on its platform.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks in the rapidly growing bike taxi segment. It highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and more robust, verifiable safety measures to protect commuters, especially women. The outcome of this legal action could set a precedent for how transport authorities across Indian states regulate and penalise aggregators for safety lapses.
