Assam Police have lodged a case against a cab driver accused of harassing Maini Mahanta, a prominent senior journalist and editor of Nandini Magazine, on the night of December 29. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had previously instructed the state’s law enforcement to swiftly address the incident, which occurred in Guwahati as Mahanta was traveling home from an event in Panjabari.
The confrontation took place during the late hours, as Mahanta journeyed from Kalakshetra to her residence. According to the journalist, the unrest began when she requested that the air conditioning be turned on because of her dust allergy. This seemingly simple request provoked the driver, who allegedly responded with verbal abuse and made a physical threat. Mahanta reported that the situation deteriorated when the driver abruptly pulled over in a dark, isolated area and insisted she get out of the car, leaving her feeling unsafe and vulnerable.
In response to the frightening ordeal, Mahanta reached out to her husband for assistance and promptly alerted the police. She later filed a formal complaint at Dispur Police Station, detailing the driver’s aggressive conduct and his threats of physical harm after she declined to exit the vehicle under hazardous circumstances.
Authorities have identified the car involved, a Premier Swift Dzire with the registration number AS 01 PC 7157, and have initiated an investigation. Officials have assured that due action will be taken against the driver once the inquiry concludes.
The incident has drawn attention and underscores concerns around safety and conduct in public transportation services. Mahanta’s account, shared on X (formerly Twitter), highlights the potential risks passengers can face in rideshare situations and the importance of addressing such behavior promptly to ensure public safety.
