Mumbai-based tech professional Ohshin Bhat alleged that a Rapido cab driver verbally abused and threatened her after she refused to pay an extra fare for her ride. Taking to social media platform X (earlier Twitter), Bhatt shared a screenshot of the driver's offensive messages, raising widespread concerns about passenger safety and accountability of cab services.
Bhatt shared that she booked a ride through Rapido's Economy service, which usually offers cheaper rides in hatchbacks. However, the assigned vehicle was from the Rapido's Premium segment, a sedan that typically carries higher fares. The driver, it seems, had listed his vehicle under both categories to get more bookings and demanded an additional payment.
When Bhatt refused to pay the extra fare, the driver became aggressive. In the screenshot she posted, he reportedly wrote: “Cancel kar do varna pal dunga khade” (Cancel the ride or I'll hit you right here). He insulted her with comments like “Bhikhari ki aulad” (a beggar's child) and mocked her financial decisions saying “Saste me chahiye paidal ja” (walk if you want it cheap).
Bhat noted that she eventually canceled the ride and booked another cab through Uber, while the Rapido driver himself canceled the booking after the incident. Speaking to Hindustan Times, she expressed her concern over the inappropriate behavior displayed by the service provider.
In response to the allegations, Rapido issued a public apology through X's customer service handle. The company said, “We fully understand the seriousness of the matter and deeply apologize for the captain's unprofessional conduct. Please share the race details via DM so that we can prioritize action against the captain and provide you with updates.”
The incident led to widespread criticism of Rapido, with many users calling for stricter measures and better inspection procedures for drivers.
One user questioned, “What in the world is going on? Why is it always Rapido?”
Another shared, “I had a similar incident, but with my Rapido customer service team!”
The episode adds to a growing list of complaints about inappropriate and threatening behavior from ride-hailing service drivers, highlighting ongoing concerns about passenger safety and accountability in the expanding gig economy.