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A teenager from UP has alleged that a Rapido driver touched him inappropriately during a bike ride, prompting the company to take action against the driver after his complaint
The teen said he had not reported the incident to police. (X/@pranavpradhi1)
A 17-year-old boy from Prayagraj has alleged that he was sexually harassed while travelling as a passenger on a Rapido bike taxi. He recorded part of the incident and later shared it on Instagram.
The teen said the incident took place in Civil Lines, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Rapido later responded to his complaint and said the driver had been permanently barred from its platform.
Teen Says Driver Touched Him During The Ride
According to the video, the teen was sitting behind the driver when the man suddenly reached his hand towards him. The passenger immediately moved the driver’s hand away.
The teen said the driver then tried touching his leg and thigh. He recorded the incident and shared the video on Instagram, tagging Rapido.
His caption read, “Minor btw”. According to Hindustan Times, the teenager said he had not reported the driver to the police. He also said, “I have not told my family yet.”
Rapido Says Driver Has Been Permanently Barred
Rapido initially asked the teenager to share his ride details and registered phone number so it could look into the matter. As per Hindustan Times, the company later told him, “We’re genuinely sorry for the experience you’ve had. We understand that situations like this can leave you feeling deeply uncomfortable and upset. As discussed over the call, please know that we have taken this matter seriously and the reported captain has been permanently barred from the platform.”
The company also said that conduct affecting a passenger’s safety or dignity was not acceptable. Speaking about the company’s response, the teenager told Hindustan Times, “They said they have sued him, but they have not given me any proof of it.”
He later thanked Rapido through an Instagram Story after the company took action. “Guys, the Rapido team has taken the action. Thank you so much for your support! @rapidoapp tysm for taking immediate action.”
What is wrong with some Indian men?Just a few days ago, there was a disturbing incident involving an immigration officer making inappropriate advances towards a teenage boy at an airport, asking him to go with him, befriend him and whatnot. Now, there’s a video of a… pic.twitter.com/darX0zJ2Cq
— pranav pradhi (@pranavpradhi1) August 15, 2026
Teen Responds To Criticism Over His Allegation
The teenager received support from many people, but some social media users reportedly also questioned his account and posted derogatory comments.
Responding to the criticism, he said, “Hate is not good. I am sad about it. I hope they realise it’s not abt gender; it’s abt human safety and child safety too!”
Key Questions Answered
Ask News18This incident, along with others, could lead to ride-sharing companies reviewing whether additional safety measures are required. Uber has already introduced new safety features, such as in-app ride recording and ambulance assistance, to strengthen safety for both riders and drivers.
Ask News18About the Author
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
August 15, 2026, 19:00 IST
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