A Mumbai-based digital content creator has claimed she was physically assaulted by an Uber driver following a disagreement over an additional Rs 40 toll payment, despite completing the fare through the app. The incident has drawn significant public attention and raised questions about passenger safety on ride-hailing platforms.
According to Shivanii, who documented the episode on Instagram, she had hired an Uber cab from Mahalaxmi to Nerul. The ride, initially estimated at Rs 460, was billed at Rs 501 upon completion, an amount she paid directly via the Uber application. However, the driver reportedly insisted on receiving an extra Rs 40 in cash to cover toll charges, which Shivanii believed were already accounted for in the final fare.
Tensions escalated when she refused the additional payment. Shivanii alleged that the driver tried to stop her from exiting the vehicle and turned aggressive once she stepped out. In an attempt to defend herself, she pushed him away, after which he allegedly slapped her, twisted her hand, and issued further threats. She quoted the driver as saying, “Phir se maar ke dikhaun kya?” (Should I hit you again to show you?).
In her social media post, Shivanii described how the minor monetary disagreement rapidly evolved into a distressing safety concern. She promptly reached out to her office colleagues, who arrived at the location to support her. Several bystanders who witnessed the confrontation also intervened, she said. Despite their presence, the driver allegedly showed no regret and persisted with threats.
A police complaint was lodged following the incident. Shivanii noted that the driver altered his account of events multiple times, claiming she had initiated the abuse, but maintained that eyewitnesses were prepared to support her version.
The matter gained traction online after her post, sparking widespread discussion on women’s safety while using cab services. Shivanii also expressed dissatisfaction with Uber’s initial response, stating that her account was temporarily blocked citing driver safety, while the driver’s account continued to operate.
In response to the public outcry, Uber issued a statement condemning the incident. “We’re deeply sorry for what you experienced. Safety is our top priority, and any form of physical harm or intimidation has no place on the Uber platform,” the company said. It confirmed that appropriate action had been taken against the driver in line with its policies and that Shivanii’s account had been reinstated. The company also acknowledged her feedback regarding support and indicated steps to improve its response mechanisms in similar cases.
The episode has prompted strong reactions on social media, with users criticising Uber’s handling of the complaint and demanding stronger safeguards for passengers.