‘How Much Is the Fare?’ Passenger Loses Temper, Assaults Pune Rickshaw Driver in Hadapsar
'How Much Is the Fare?' Passenger Loses Temper, Assaults Pune Rickshaw Driver in Hadapsar
Pune, June 21: A dispute over an auto-rickshaw fare reportedly escalated into a violent assault in Pune’s Hadapsar area, leaving a driver seriously injured after a passenger allegedly attacked him with a stone.
The incident took place on the evening of June 18 near the Gadital area of Hadapsar. Police have registered a case against the accused and launched further investigation into the matter.
According to information provided by the police, the injured driver has been identified as Ishwar Baroda Pawar (39), a resident of Vaiduwadi, Hadapsar. Pawar lodged a complaint with the Hadapsar Police Station following the incident.
Argument Began Over Auto Fare
Police said Pawar was waiting for passengers with his auto-rickshaw near Gadital when the accused, identified as Bhagwat Gudappa Wale (25), a resident of Keshav Chowk, Malwadi, Hadapsar, approached him and inquired about the fare to Vaiduwadi.
The passenger allegedly felt that the quoted fare was too high, leading to an argument between the two. What began as a verbal disagreement soon intensified.
Passenger Allegedly Picked Up Stone During Argument
Investigators said that during the heated exchange, the accused, who reportedly works as a watchman, became enraged and allegedly picked up a large stone lying nearby.
He is accused of striking Pawar on the head with the stone, causing serious injuries. The sudden attack left the driver injured and shocked, while bystanders gathered at the scene.
Panic in Busy Area
The incident reportedly created panic in the busy Gadital locality for some time. The injured driver was rushed to a hospital for medical treatment.
Hadapsar Police have registered an offence against the accused and are conducting further investigations into the case.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over disputes turning violent in Pune, with residents expressing alarm over attacks stemming from seemingly minor disagreements.
