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Kerala Cracks Down: Munnar Taxi Drivers Lose Licenses After Tourist Harassment

The Kerala government has taken strong action against three taxi drivers in Munnar who harassed a woman tourist from Mumbai. Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar directed immediate cancellation of their licenses, calling the incident a blot on Kerala's tourism image. The victim, Janhvi, had shared a viral video detailing how she was threatened for using an online cab service. This swift response demonstrates the state's commitment to maintaining its reputation as a safe travel destination.

Key Points: Kerala Cancels Munnar Taxi Licenses for Mumbai Tourist Harassment

  • Three taxi drivers arrested for wrongful restraint and intimidation of Mumbai tourist
  • Driving licenses suspended for six months following ministerial directive
  • Two police officials suspended for failing to assist harassed tourist
  • Government warns against unlawful trade union practices damaging tourism
  • Swift action taken after victim's viral video exposed the harassment incident
2 min read

Kerala cancels licences of Munnar taxi drivers who harassed Mumbai tourist

Kerala government cancels licenses of three Munnar taxi drivers who harassed Mumbai tourist Janhvi for using online cab service, sending strong tourism safety message.

"Such hooliganism cannot be tolerated in a progressive state like Kerala - Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar"

Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 5

In a strong message against lawlessness in the tourism sector, the Kerala government has taken stern action against three taxi drivers in Munnar who allegedly harassed a woman tourist from Mumbai for using an online cab service.

Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar, terming the incident a blot on Kerala’s image as a safe travel destination, had directed the immediate cancellation of the licences of the three drivers arrested in the case, which was done on Wednesday.

The three accused drivers — P. Vijayakumar (40), K. Vinayakan, and A. Aneesh Kumar (40) — were arrested on charges of wrongful restraint and criminal intimidation but later released on station bail.

Their driving licences have since been suspended for six months.

“The licences of the drivers involved will be cancelled without delay. Such hooliganism cannot be tolerated in a progressive state like Kerala,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

He stressed that the government supports law-abiding drivers, including those working with online platforms, but would act firmly against intimidation and unlawful trade union practices.

The victim, Janhvi, an assistant professor from Mumbai, had shared a viral video narrating how she and her friends were threatened by a group of local taxi drivers while visiting Munnar in the last week of October.

The group had been travelling across Kochi and Alappuzha using an online taxi when they were stopped by local unionised drivers who claimed online cabs were not permitted in the hill station.

Following her post, the state government responded swiftly. Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas intervened, leading to the suspension of two police officials — Grade Sub-Inspector George Kurian and Assistant Sub-Inspector Saju Paulose — for failing to assist the tourist and allegedly siding with the local drivers.

Over the years, Kerala has earned a reputation for strong trade union dominance, often creating fear among business owners and the public.

Both the Ministers had warned that the government will not allow “such lawlessness to damage Kerala’s image as a safe and welcoming tourism destination.”

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some strict action! I've faced similar issues in hill stations where local taxi unions bully tourists into using their overpriced services. The suspension of police officials is equally important - they should protect citizens, not support goons.
A
Arjun K
While I support action against harassment, I hope the government also addresses the genuine concerns of local taxi drivers. Many depend on tourism for livelihood and feel threatened by online platforms. A balanced approach is needed.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited Munnar last year, I experienced similar pressure from local drivers. This swift action shows Kerala is serious about maintaining its reputation as God's Own Country. Tourism is crucial for their economy.
M
Michael C
Good decision! No one should be harassed for choosing a service provider. This sets the right precedent for tourist safety across India. The police officials' suspension was necessary - they failed in their duty.
N
Nikhil C
While I appreciate the government's quick response, I hope this isn't just a one-time show for media attention. Kerala needs systematic reform to address union dominance that affects both tourists and local businesses regularly.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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