Will the Licenses of 3 Kerala Taxi Drivers Who Harassed a Female Tourist Be Cancelled?
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Synopsis
In a swift response to public outrage, Kerala's government has moved to cancel the licenses of three taxi drivers accused of harassing a female tourist. This decisive action underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring safety for all visitors. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between local drivers and online cab services in tourist areas.
Key Takeaways
- Government Action: Immediate cancellation of taxi drivers’ licenses.
- Public Response: Widespread outrage and support for the victim.
- Police Involvement: Two officers suspended for not aiding the tourist.
- Tourism Impact: The incident raises concerns about safety and local driver conflicts.
- Legal Measures: Stronger regulations may be needed to prevent future incidents.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 4 (NationPress) The government of Kerala has initiated decisive measures after three taxi drivers in Munnar reportedly harassed a female tourist from Mumbai for opting for an online cab service. Following a surge of public outrage and a viral social media account shared by the victim, Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar ordered the prompt cancellation of the licenses for the three drivers apprehended in this incident.
“The licenses of the involved drivers will be revoked without hesitation. Such hooliganism is unacceptable in a progressive state like Kerala,” stated the Minister.
He emphasized that the government supports law-abiding individuals, including those operating online cabs, but will take strong action against anyone who resorts to intimidation or unlawful behaviors.
“Uber is not prohibited in Kerala or anywhere in India. The situation in Munnar was not about livelihoods; it was about lawlessness,” he remarked.
The victim, named Janhvi, an assistant professor from Mumbai, posted a video on social media illustrating how she and her companions were threatened by a group of local taxi drivers during their visit to Munnar in the last week of October.
This group, which had traveled through Kochi and Alappuzha using an online taxi, was confronted by local drivers who claimed that online cabs were banned in Munnar.
When Janhvi sought assistance from the police, she alleged that the officers sided with the drivers instead of providing help.
After her post gained traction online, the government reacted swiftly. Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas intervened, resulting in immediate departmental action.
Two police officials -- Grade Sub-Inspector George Kurian and Assistant Sub-Inspector Saju Paulose -- were suspended for failing to assist the tourist and allegedly backing the local drivers.
Three taxi drivers, P. Vijayakumar (40), K. Vinayakan, and A. Aneesh Kumar (40), were arrested on charges of wrongful restraint and criminal intimidation, though they were later released on station bail.
The Transport Department has commenced processes to revoke the licenses of the drivers as per the minister's directive. Ganesh Kumar cautioned that similar incidents in the future would lead to serious consequences, asserting, “No one will be allowed to tarnish Kerala’s reputation as a safe and welcoming tourism destination.”
Point of View
I believe this incident in Kerala raises important questions about the balance between local businesses and emerging online services. While the government’s swift action signals a commitment to safety, it also highlights the need for clear regulations to prevent future conflicts. We must support both the rights of tourists and those of local drivers in a harmonious manner.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions did the Kerala government take against the taxi drivers?
The Kerala government ordered the immediate cancellation of the licenses of the three taxi drivers involved in the harassment incident.
Why were the taxi drivers arrested?
The drivers were arrested on charges of wrongful restraint and criminal intimidation after allegedly harassing a female tourist.
What was the reaction from the Kerala Transport Minister?
Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar emphasized that such hooliganism is intolerable and assured that the licenses of the drivers would be revoked promptly.
