Ola customer sets showroom ablaze over unresolved e-scooter issues in Karnataka

The enraged 26-year-old youth, frustrated over inadequate customer care for his recently bought scooter, which had shown repeated issues, set fire to the Ola electric scooter showroom in Karnataka’s Kalaburagi.

The incident occurred after Mohammad Nadeem, reportedly engaged in a heated argument with staff members at the showroom regarding issues with his e-scooter.

Nadeem, a mechanic by profession, had bought the electric scooter a month ago for ₹1.4 lakh. However, just a couple of days after the purchase, the vehicle began showing technical problems, including issues with its battery and sound system.

Frustrated by what he perceived as inadequate support from the showroom, Nadeem visited the showroom several times to get the problem resolved but claimed that his concerns were not being properly addressed.

On Tuesday, tensions escalated when Nadeem returned to the showroom. After pouring petrol, he set the premises on fire, causing significant damage. Six vehicles, along with computer systems, were destroyed in the blaze. Visuals from the scene showed thick smoke billowing from the building as the fire consumed the showroom. Authorities have estimated the loss at around ₹8.5 lakh.

A case has been registered against Nadeem, who has since been arrested by the police. The investigation is ongoing.