An app-based motorbike driver was brutally thrashed by a group of 20-30 men in Liluah Sea Road in Howrah, West Bengal after he refused a ride without prior online booking on Sunday.

The 27-year-old victim, identified as Ajay Sau, was thrashed by a group of men with iron rods, pipes and other heavy objects on Sunday night when he was sitting at a tea stall near his home.

Police said that the driver had refused a ride to a man on Sunday morning, and to avenge the refusal, he was attacked by the men.

The victim was gravely injured leading to profuse bleeding. He suffered critical injuries on his eyes, lips and nose.

Police are investigating the matter, which has stirred unrest among other app-based drivers. The incident took place amidst a call for a strike by app-cab drivers seeking security.

The victim's mother, Sunayna Sau said that she was informed about the incident by a neighbour. When she reached the spot, she saw Ajay was not there. She was later informed that Ajay has been rushed to the Howrah district hospital. She said, "I want the accused to be arrested as soon as possible."

No arrest has been made until Monday night.

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