Nagpur: A video circulating on social media showing the public beating of an auto driver from the Pardi area has sparked widespread concern after it was linked to a false narrative suggesting a threat similar to the recent Kolkata rape and murder case. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Zone V, Niketan Kadam, has clarified that these claims are entirely unfounded.
The incident occurred on August 20, when two schoolgirls from the Pardi area boarded an auto-rickshaw in Lakadganj to return home. According to reports, the schoolgirls were talking loudly, which irritated the auto driver. An argument ensued, during which the driver allegedly behaved inappropriately. However, contrary to the sensational claims circulating online, the driver did not threaten the girls with violence akin to the tragic Kolkata incident.
After the argument, the schoolgirls requested the driver to stop the vehicle. When he continued to behave objectionably, local residents intervened, cornered the driver, and subjected him to a public beating. The Pardi police quickly arrived at the scene and took both the auto driver and the schoolgirls to the police station.
DCP Kadam, who was present at the station, confirmed that the victims did not mention any threats related to the Kolkata case during their statements. Following the driver’s apology, the matter was amicably resolved at the station.
The Nagpur Police Department expressed shock and concern over the misinformation being spread on social media without fact-checking. They urge the public to refrain from sensationalizing incidents and to verify facts before sharing information that could cause unnecessary panic and fear.
The police continue to monitor the situation closely and emphasize their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, particularly women and girls, in Nagpur.