Puri: In an inspiring display of honesty and integrity, a cab driver in Puri returned a bag containing gold jewellery worth around ₹10 lakh and ₹1.30 lakh in cash after it was inadvertently left behind in his vehicle by passengers.
The driver, Santosh Mishra, was widely appreciated by both the owners of the valuables and the police for his exemplary act.
According to officials, Ramakanta Baral and his wife, Smaranika Baral, residents of Chudanga Sahi in Puri, had hired Santosh Mishra’s taxi from Kalpana Chhak in Bhubaneswar upon return after attending a wedding feast in Bhadrak. The couple got down at Medical Chhak in Puri but accidentally left behind a bag inside the vehicle.
The following morning, while cleaning his car, Mishra found the unattended bag. On opening it, he discovered three gold necklaces, four gold rings, a pair of earrings, and ₹1.30 lakh in cash. He also found a UPI payment slip carrying a contact number, which enabled him to reach the owners.
Mishra subsequently took the bag to Kumbharpada Police Station, where he formally handed over the valuables. After verification, the police returned the jewellery and cash to the Baral family.
Expressing relief and gratitude, Ramakanta Baral thanked the driver for returning his hard-earned savings without any hesitation. His wife, Smaranika Baral, became emotional while appreciating Mishra’s honesty, saying his selfless act was a living example of humanity and integrity.
Officials at Kumbharpada Police Station also lauded the driver. An Assistant Sub-Inspector said Mishra’s decision to return gold worth nearly ₹10 lakh along with ₹1.30 lakh in cash reflected the highest standards of human values and honesty.
The incident has drawn widespread appreciation, with many hailing Santosh Mishra’s integrity as a reminder that honesty continues to thrive in society.
