Bengaluru Auto Driver Returns Lost Bag Full of Cash to Passenger

A Heartwarming Act of Honesty

Auto rickshaw drivers often face negative stereotypes among the public due to issues like poor communication, refusal to go to specified destinations, and overcharging. However, not all drivers fit this mold. Many, like Kumar D, a 54-year-old auto driver from near KR Puram in Bengaluru, take pride in their integrity.

Last Thursday, Kumar found himself in a situation that tested his honesty when a passenger accidentally left behind a bag filled with cash. Instead of succumbing to temptation, Kumar immediately set out to locate the passenger and return the bag.

The passenger, Amit Kumar Pandey, a 33-year-old from Mumbai, had taken Kumar's auto from Cottonpet and exited near the Eidgah Maidan in Chamrajpet. As Amit left, another woman hailed Kumar's auto, and upon entering, she noticed the forgotten bag. She promptly informed Kumar about it, prompting him to decide to return the bag.

Not wanting to lose his current fare, Kumar first dropped off the woman before searching for Amit. Recalling that Amit was headed to a nearby shop, he went there and inquired about him. The shopkeeper helped by calling Amit, who soon arrived with the police. In the presence of the police, Amit checked the bag and discovered it contained a whopping ₹2.6 lakh.

Amit was overjoyed by Kumar's honesty and rewarded him with ₹3,000. Additionally, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Sanjeev M Patil was impressed by Kumar's integrity and awarded him ₹5,000 along with a certificate of appreciation for his honesty.