Mumbai BJP MLA Parag Shah slaps auto driver during protest against illegal hawking, traffic violations

A controversy erupted in Mumbai after BJP MLA Parag Shah was caught on camera slapping an auto-rickshaw driver during a protest against illegal hawking and traffic violations in his Ghatkopar East constituency on December 20.

The incident occurred while Shah was leading a local protest aimed at highlighting what he described as persistent civic problems, including illegal street hawkers occupying roads and footpaths and frequent traffic violations by auto-rickshaw drivers. According to Shah, such issues have led to congestion and posed risks to pedestrians, particularly senior citizens and children.

Video footage that surfaced on social media shows Shah stopping an auto-rickshaw and arguing with the driver, who was allegedly driving on the wrong side at high speed. As Shah’s supporters gathered around, the argument escalated and the MLA slapped the driver, triggering widespread criticism and debate.

Following the backlash, Shah admitted to slapping the driver, saying he acted in a moment of anger. He claimed the driver’s alleged reckless driving during the protest created a dangerous situation and said his reaction was not planned but driven by concern for public safety. Shah defended the protest as an effort to push authorities to act against daily nuisances caused by traffic indiscipline and illegal hawking. He also said the auto driver was penalised by traffic police for violating traffic rules.

The auto-rickshaw driver did not retaliate physically and appeared shocked in the video, attempting to explain himself. He was later issued a traffic fine, but there are no reports of him lodging a formal complaint against the MLA, nor has he made a public statement on the incident.

Opposition leaders strongly condemned Shah’s action, calling it an example of political arrogance and misuse of power, and argued that elected representatives have no right to take the law into their own hands. They demanded accountability and legal action.

Public opinion has remained divided. While many criticised Shah for resorting to violence and acting like a vigilante, others expressed sympathy, citing widespread frustration over rule-breaking drivers and perceived lax enforcement by authorities.

As of now, the police have not registered an FIR in connection with the incident, further fuelling debate over the conduct of public representatives and equal application of the law.