A shocking incident of road rage has emerged from Thane, where a senior citizen was brutally assaulted by an auto-rickshaw driver after he objected to the driver spitting on the road. The entire episode was captured on a mobile phone camera and has since gone viral on social media, sparking outrage among netizens.
What Happened?
According to reports, the incident took place in the Wagle Estate area of Thane on Wednesday. The senior citizen, identified as 65-year-old Prakash Joshi, was walking on the footpath when he saw an auto-rickshaw driver spitting on the road. Joshi politely asked the driver not to spit in public, which led to a heated argument.
The auto driver, enraged by the objection, allegedly started abusing Joshi and then physically attacked him. The video shows the driver repeatedly punching and kicking the elderly man, who fell to the ground. Despite Joshi's pleas for mercy, the driver continued the assault until some passersby intervened and rescued the victim.
Viral Video and Public Reaction
The video of the assault was shared widely on social media platforms, with many users condemning the auto driver's behavior and calling for strict action against him. The clip shows the senior citizen lying on the road while the driver continues to hit him. Netizens expressed anger and demanded that the police take immediate action.
One user wrote, "This is absolutely disgusting. How can someone beat an elderly person like this? The driver must be punished severely." Another commented, "We need more civic sense and respect for elders. Such incidents are shameful."
Police Action
Following the viral video, the Thane police registered a case against the auto driver. Senior Police Inspector Rajendra Kadam of the Wagle Estate police station confirmed that an FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including assault and causing hurt. The accused has been identified as Ramesh Pawar, a 35-year-old auto driver from the area.
"We have taken cognizance of the matter and arrested the accused. He will be produced before the court," said Kadam. The police also assured that the senior citizen is receiving medical treatment and is out of danger.
Impact on the Victim
Prakash Joshi, a retired bank employee, sustained multiple injuries on his face and body. He was admitted to a nearby hospital, where doctors said his condition is stable. In his statement to the police, Joshi said, "I only asked him not to spit on the road. He started abusing me and then beat me mercilessly. I am still in shock."
The incident has once again highlighted the lack of civic sense and the rising cases of road rage in urban areas. Citizens have urged the authorities to install more CCTV cameras and take strict action against those who violate public decency.
Broader Context
Spitting in public places is not only unhygienic but also a punishable offense under various municipal laws. However, enforcement remains weak, leading to such confrontations. This incident serves as a reminder that public behavior and respect for others are essential for a harmonious society.
The Thane police have appealed to the public to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands. They have also urged citizens to report such incidents to the nearest police station rather than engaging in arguments that can escalate into violence.
