A file photo of autorickshaws. The woman, a resident of Bellandur, was returning home on May 31 on her bike when she accused the auto driver of grazing her two-wheeler deliberately near Centro Mall.
| Photo Credit: File photo

An IT employee, who assaulted an autorickshaw driver with a slipper and was arrested by the Bellandur police on May 31, tendered an unconditional apology to the driver and his family on June 2.

The accused, Pankhuri Mishra, apologised to Lokesh, the autorickshaw driver, and his family with folded handed stating that she is pregnant and is worried, but is sorry for whatever happened. “I am not against Kannada or the people of Karnataka,” Ms. Pankhuri, who was accompanied by her husband, added.

The accused, a resident of Bellandur, was returning home on May 31 afternoon on her bike when she accused Lokesh of grazing her two-wheeler deliberately near Centro Mall.

Following a heated argument, she assaulted Lokesh with a slipper, abused him verbally, and threatened him. The video of the incident, recorded by Mr. Lokesh, went viral prompting sharp reactions from the auto drivers’ fraternity.

Later, Lokesh filed a complaint with the Bellandur police, who tracked down the accused and arrested her. After being questioned, she recorded her statement. She was then released on bail.

Taking strong objection to her rude behaviour, autorickshaw drivers and Kannada activists staged a protest, demanding strict action against her.

Seeing the situation escalate, Ms. Pankhuri approached Lokesh through the autorickshaw drivers’ union and sought forgiveness. The video of her apology has gone viral on social media.