Pune Auto Driver Sets an Example of Honesty, Returns Bag Worth Rs 20,000 Left Behind by Passenger

Kondhwa, 29th October 2025: In a city where autorickshaw drivers often find themselves at the receiving end of complaints about refusals, overcharging, and rude behaviour, one driver from Kondhwa has become a shining example of integrity.

Thirty-seven-year-old Samir Ansari, who has been driving an autorickshaw for nearly 20 years, proved that honesty still thrives on Pune’s streets. Working with Uber Auto, Ansari recently returned a bag containing valuables worth around ₹20,000 to a passenger who had accidentally left it behind.

“It was around 7 in the evening. I had taken a ride from NIBM Road to Kausarbaug,” Ansari said, recalling the incident. “The passenger was a woman, and after dropping her, I went on to complete two more short trips.”

After his last ride, Ansari noticed a ladies’ handbag lying in the back seat. “I froze for a moment. I had ferried three women on short rides one after another and had no idea who the bag belonged to,” he said.

Unsure of what to do, Ansari reached out to the Azad Rickshaw Chalak Sanghatna for guidance. “I began checking my trip records, as most passengers make online payments. That’s when I spotted messages from one of the riders about her missing bag,” he said.

He immediately contacted the woman through the ride-sharing app and assured her that her belongings were safe. They decided to meet at Kondhwa Police Station, where Ansari handed over the bag in the presence of police officials.

“The woman came along with her father. She was very relieved and thankful. The bag had ornaments and some personal items,” Ansari shared.

For Ansari, honesty isn’t new. He recalled another similar moment from six years ago. “Back then, two passengers had left their bag in my rickshaw near a housing society in Kothrud. I waited outside for nearly two hours, and when they came out searching for it, they were surprised to find me waiting,” he said with a smile.

Ansari, a father of three school-going children, believes that sincerity brings self-respect. “Our work is hard, but being honest gives peace of mind. I want my children to grow up proud of what I do,” he said.

Local rickshaw union members praised his gesture, saying drivers like Ansari uphold the dignity of the profession.