Auto driver ends life alleging MVD harassment

An autorickshaw driver from Mundapparamba at Kizhissery near Kondotty ended his life on Thursday (August 27, 2026) after alleging harassment and bribery by Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) officials.Shoukath, 35, left a detailed note on Facebook shortly before his death. He alleged that MVD officials refused to renew the fitness certificate of his autorickshaw because he did not pay bribes.He said he had spent the last 10 months visiting agents and MVD offices to renew the fitness certificate. Without the certificate, he could not operate the autorickshaw, his only source of income. He said the loss of income left him unable to repay his loans and caused severe financial difficulties and mental distress.In the note, Shoukath held the Kerala Motor Vehicles department responsible for his death. He also alleged that the agent system at MVD offices contributed to corruption.Shoukath appealed to the public to seek justice after his death, saying he had no family or relatives to support him. He said ordinary people could not easily approach courts over every grievance and described his death as a protest against a corrupt system.He also expressed concern that the officials responsible could escape if the authorities conducted only a routine investigation. He alleged that the department might cite steel work on his vehicle to declare it unfit. However, he pointed out that the same department had inspected the vehicle twice earlier and issued fitness certificates.Shoukath’s final request was for the Home department and the High Court to intervene in the matter and ensure justice. The police said they registered a case and began an investigation.(Those in distress or having suicidal tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling any of may call the following numbers: DISHA - 1056, 0471-2552056, State’s health helpline 104, Maithri - 0484-2540530. Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre – 0495-2760000.) Published - August 27, 2026 04:52 pm IST