Autorickshaw Driver Charged with Sexual Harassment of Student

Speedy Summary

• A case of sexual harassment has been registered by the Puttenahalli police against autorickshaw driver Hanumanthappa H. Talwar for allegedly harassing a 19-year-old female student in Bengaluru on September 8, 2025.
• The victim used the Rapido ride-hailing app to book an autorickshaw from J.P. Nagar to her residence at around 4:28 p.m., reaching her destination at around 5:15 p.m., where the incident occurred.
• The accused, on the pretext of helping with her bag, reportedly touched her inappropriately and made inappropriate remarks about her appearance before she informed her mother and filed a police complaint.
• Despite filing details about the accused with law enforcement, authorities have yet to apprehend him after more than a week since the complaint was lodged.

Second Incident:

• On September 7, another sexual harassment case was reported involving Manjunath, an engineer who harassed a 29-year-old web designer near Jakkur Double Road in Bengaluru while she assisted an injured stray dog crossing the street late at night.
• The victim’s friends chased Manjunath when he attempted to flee; he lost balance while riding away and fell but escaped briefly after being handed over to patrolling police officers nearby.
• Authorities later tracked him down at his apartment near Bagalur; Manjunath sustained injuries during his fall and was arrested after receiving treatment at a hospital.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The two cases highlight ongoing challenges related to women’s safety across urban areas of India despite efforts by law enforcement agencies and transportation platforms like ride-hailing apps promising secure commutes for users. While prompt filing of complaints by victims is commendable as it underscores awareness surrounding reporting such crimes, delays in apprehending suspects-such as noted in one instance-can undercut public confidence in policing efficacy.

Incidents also raise larger questions about accountability mechanisms within tech-based mobility services regarding vetting protocols or response systems designed specifically for addressing abuse reports quickly distinguishing four restored support networks bridging authorities meanwhile safeguardinclusive stricter prevention