Uber apologises, expresses hope of operating in Delhi again

Under attack over the alleged rape by one its drivers, internet-based taxi firm Uber apologised and said it will assist authorities to help bring the accused to justice as it expressed hope of operating in the city again.

"We are sorry and deeply saddened by what happened over the weekend in New Delhi. Our hearts go out to the victim of this horrible crime. We have been and will continue to do everything in our power to assist the authorities to help bring the perpetrator to justice," Uber said in a statement issued on Thursday.

The US-based company further said that events of the week have made it look into its operations in India and they are taking a number of important actions.

"Firstly, we are conducting a full audit of our verification, rider feedback and support processes. We are implementing measures to ensure that critical rider feedback is escalated immediately and immediate action is taken in every instance. We are also re-reviewing rider feedback on every driver partner across India to make sure nothing has been missed.

"Second, we are assessing all driver screening processes. We are evaluating additional screening options to include background checks on all our driver partners in India and third, we will also bring in our global best practices where it would enhance our India safety efforts," the detailed statement said.

Uber, which has been banned from operating in Delhi by the government, also said they will partner closely with organisations that are championing women's safety here in the city and around the country.

Uber also expressed hope of operating in the city again and serve Delhiites.

"Your support means a lot to us. We will come back better and stronger for the New Delhi community, ready to serve you again," said Uber.