Cab Driver’s Passenger Rules Spark Heated Debate on Reddit

Six regulations developed by a cab driver have sparked a heated discussion on Reddit as users consider whether his policies are reasonable or unduly harsh. The driver wants to establish clear standards for behaviour during rides, hence he displayed the list inside his car so that all passengers may read it. Although some applauded his strategy, others felt his rules—especially his attitude towards being called as "bhaiya"—problematic.

Printed in strong, clear lettering, the guidelines cover basic manners to more controversial requests. The driver underlines among other important things respect and courtesy. Passengers should not call him "bhaiya," a familiar term used in various parts of India to describe a man in a friendly, casual manner, he advises Rather, he exhorts travellers to treat him the same respect they would show to anyone else.

"Please don't call me 'bhaiya,'" the directive states. "I would appreciate being treated respectfully; I am not your brother." Online, though, this request has generated a range of responses. Some Redditors concur that "bhaiya" might not be suitable in a business environment, particularly in relation to the driver's provision of a service. Others contend that it is a cultural term of affection and respect, especially in India where "bhaiya" is a popular way to address elderly men or persons in a position of power.

The second rule the driver stresses emphasises how passengers pay for the ride but do not own the car. Some customers connected with this reminder that the driver controls the cab and bears responsibility for its maintenance. "The person driving the cab is the owner," the rule says, implying that during the ride passengers should treat the car and its driver with respect.

Still another contentious guideline is attitude. Clearly annoyed with rude behaviour, the driver wrote, "Put your attitude in your pocket." He then went on to say that a passenger is still expected to behave politely even if they pay more for their trip. "A high fare does not justify bad behaviour," he said. Particularly this provision, which suggests that passengers are accountable for the driver's attitude, received conflicting reactions from some users supporting the driver's position while others claimed it would be considered as an overreach.

Furthermore, the driver asks that passengers treat the car carefully—especially when closing the door. One of the guidelines advises, "Close the door gently." Emphasising the need of maintaining someone else's property, several users valued a little but useful request.

The last rule—shown in red—safety first was maybe the most generally accepted guideline. The driver vehemently rejected any calls to expedite the travel. Underlining the need of safe driving, he advised against saying to drive quickly or be late. Many consumers who praised the driver for putting safety before speed—especially in an era when speeding can cause catastrophic events—related with this.

While some Reddit members completely approved of the driver's restrictions, others questioned the tone and justification behind some policies. Particularly the resistance to being labelled "bhaiya" sparked the greatest discussion since numerous users argued for a more sympathetic attitude to regional cultures. Notwithstanding the conflicting views, the talk emphasises a continuous debate on professionalism, respect, and expectations in daily service contacts.

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