Auto Driver’s Permit Suspended for Body-Shaming Mumbai Woman

He forced Asmi Shah (30) out of his auto for being fat and she posted the story on Twitter.

The Mumbai transport department cancelled the permit and driving license of an auto-driver, on Saturday, who fat-shamed a 30-year-old woman, Asmi Shah, reports the Mumbai Mirror. The incident occurred on 12 April when the driver had asked the woman to get off his rickshaw as she was slowing it down. She threatened to complain him to the police but he told her she could do what she wanted to.

She managed to take a photo of his number plate as he drove off and posted it on her twitter handle. She also complained to both the local police and traffic department.

The transport department said they keep getting complaints from people about drivers misbehaving and refusing to comply.

Generally, the commuters do not pursue the matter further. This gives them (the auto drivers) confidence to misbehave with the passengers. We have always asked people to report such matters so that such arrogant drivers can be taught a lesson. In this case, it was very brave of the girl to come forward and raise the issue. Commuters have a bigger part to play. Hopefully, this incident will serve as an example and more people will come forward to raise their voice against any wrongdoings.

Transport Department Official

Shah herself was overjoyed with the development.

I am very happy that justice has been done. It was nice of the transport department to take such prompt action. I had in fact lost hope on this. They should learn to respect ladies and not judge anyone by their appearance. We are paying for their service and they should keep that in mind.

Asmi Shah