Mobbed for a Ride: Safety Concerns Rise After Bike Taxi Commuter Assaulted in Mysuru

The confrontation unfolded around 11:00 PM when the youth booked a Rapido bike—a more affordable alternative to local taxis and autos—to return home. According to accounts shared by the victim’s sister, singer Aisiree Bhat, the auto-rickshaw drivers intercepted the youth, leading to a physical altercation. In a series of distressed posts on social media, Bhat expressed her shock over the vulnerability of commuters, noting that her brother was targeted simply for exercising his choice as a consumer. The video footage accompanying her statement shows the chaos of the encounter, capturing a moment that has become increasingly common in urban centers where the legality and operation of bike taxis remain a flashpoint of contention.

While local police intervened during the scuffle, the resolution has drawn sharp criticism from the public. Rather than initiating formal legal proceedings or filing a First Information Report (FIR) against the aggressors, the responding officers allegedly facilitated a settlement, urging the victim to drop the matter. This lack of administrative action has raised serious questions regarding the safety of passengers and the enforcement of law and order within the station's precincts. By treating the assault as a minor dispute rather than a criminal act of intimidation, critics argue that the authorities are inadvertently emboldening "auto unions" to continue their gatekeeping of public transport hubs through force.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the volatile environment facing the gig economy in India, where regulatory ambiguity often leaves both service providers and users at risk. Beyond the physical injuries sustained by the teenager, the event underscores a broader systemic issue: the right of a citizen to choose safe, economical transport without the fear of reprisal. As the video continues to circulate, the pressure mounts on Mysuru city officials to address the "goondaism" reported at transit points and to ensure that the city's transport ecosystem remains competitive, lawful, and, above all, safe for the common commuter.