**Title:** Woman Molested by Rapido Rider in Kalyan, Maharashtra
**Meta Description:** A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested by a Rapido bike rider in Kalyan, Maharashtra, while on her way to the gym. The accused has been arrested.
**URL Slug:** woman-molested-rapido-rider-kalyan
**Headline:** 26-Year-Old Woman Allegedly Molested by Rapido Bike Rider in Kalyan
A 26-year-old woman was reportedly molested by a Rapido bike rider while traveling to her gym in Kalyan, Maharashtra, on Saturday evening. The incident, which also involved the theft of ₹1,000 from the victim, has raised serious concerns about safety in ride-sharing services.
The woman had booked a ride to her gym near Kalyan railway station at around 7 PM. Upon arrival, the rider, identified as Siddhesh Pardeshi, 19, allegedly diverted the scooter to a secluded area instead of taking her to her intended destination. According to police reports, he forcefully grabbed her hand and attempted to molest her. When the victim screamed for help, local residents rushed to her aid, overpowering the accused.
Senior Inspector Baliramsingh Pardeshi from Mahatma Phule police station stated that the rider, who had been working with Rapido for just over a month, was arrested on Sunday following the incident. The locals reportedly beat him before handing him over to the police. A knife was also recovered from the accused.
The police have filed a case based on the woman’s complaint, and Siddhesh has been remanded in custody until December 18. Authorities are investigating whether he has a history of similar offenses.
In addition to the criminal charges, the Kalyan Regional Transport Office (RTO) has issued a challan against the rider for operating an unauthorized bike taxi. The rider violated the Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules 2025 by using a conventional petrol-powered motorcycle instead of the mandated electric two-wheeler. The RTO has initiated penal action and imposed a fine under the Motor Vehicles Act. They have also requested the local police to file a complaint against the bike taxi aggregator for breaching permit regulations.
In light of this incident, the state transport department has called on ride-sharing companies like Rapido, Ola, and Uber to explain why their temporary licenses should not be revoked for illegal passenger transport.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik is scheduled to hold an urgent meeting with Motor Transport Department officials to address these issues.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What actions are being taken against the Rapido rider?**
A: The rider has been arrested and remanded in police custody. The RTO has also issued a challan for operating an unauthorized bike taxi, and further investigations are ongoing.
