One Ride, Two Strangers, Zero Consent: A Woman’s Night of Fear on the Road

Travelling alone, especially late at night, can be stressful. But for women, the stakes are often much higher. Here’s a real story from one of our contributors, highlighting how quickly a seemingly normal ride can turn into a nightmare.

After landing on a late-night flight, I hailed a cab to reach my accommodation. Five minutes into the ride, the driver suggested a detour to pick up a friend. I firmly refused, making it clear I didn’t want any extra passengers. But my refusal fell on deaf ears. Moments later, the driver picked up his friend anyway.

The friend sat in the front seat, keeping his hand on the back of my seat and glancing over his shoulder repeatedly. I felt trapped and unsafe. My heart raced, and panic set in immediately.

Feeling Unsafe: When Fear Took Over

I started calling my parents and friends, making sure someone was listening. Each phone call was a lifeline. I explained the situation in a trembling voice, my hands shaking. Every street we passed felt longer, every turn more threatening. I was terrified, feeling completely alone despite the people on the other end of the line.

The Moment I Escaped: Acting on Instinct

Eventually, the cab stopped at a traffic junction I recognised near a crowded movie theatre. My heart pounded as I saw my chance. Without thinking twice, I jumped out of the cab and ran toward a friend who was waiting nearby. Relief washed over me, but the terror wasn’t fully gone yet.

When the Threat Followed: The Cab Circling Back

The nightmare continued. I noticed the cab circling the area, having taken a U-turn, possibly looking for me. Every step toward safety felt tense. I didn’t dare go to the hotel my company had booked, as the driver already knew the address. That night, I vowed I would never take cabs alone again.

ALSO READ- ‘I Took Mumbai’s Safety for Granted’: Woman Speaks Out After Sexual Assault in Local Train

How to File a Complaint If You Face Harassment While Travelling

If you experience harassment in a cab, auto, or any public transport:

• Note down the vehicle number and driver details immediately.
• File a complaint with the local police or via the Delhi Police Women Safety App or other city-specific apps.
• Report the incident to the cab company through their helpline or official grievance channels.

Women’s Helpline Numbers You Should Know

• National Women Helpline: 181
• Delhi Police Women Helpline: 1091
• Emergency Helpline: 112

Keep these numbers saved on your phone, and never hesitate to call when you feel unsafe.

Know Your Rights as a Woman Traveller

Women have the right to refuse any unwanted detours, additional passengers, or inappropriate behaviour while travelling. If a driver ignores your instructions or makes you feel unsafe, it is your right to end the ride immediately and seek help.

What You Can Do If This Happens to You

• Trust your instincts; leave the vehicle if you feel unsafe.
• Call friends or family to keep them updated on your location.
• Seek a crowded public place or a known safe spot.
• File a formal complaint as soon as possible.

This story is more than just one woman’s experience; it’s a reminder that women’s safety in transit is non-negotiable. Sharing real experiences under the ‘Safety on Wheels’ campaign highlights the dangers women face and equips them with strategies to protect themselves. Awareness, preparation, and action can mean the difference between fear and safety.

ALSO READ- Is Your Night-Time Cab Ride Safe? A True Story That Will Make You Think Twice: Safety On Wheels

If you want to share your story or raise your voice, reach out to us at [email protected].

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Image Courtesy: Freepik