Karnataka High Court’s decision to ban bike taxis services has triggered a livelihood crisis for over one lakh gig workers, particularly in Bengaluru.
The ruling, which prohibits two-wheelers with white license plates from operating commercially, has led to massive protests from riders and aggregators such as Rapido, Ola, and Uber Moto.
The Namma Bike Taxi Association, representing affected riders, has appealed to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to reconsider the ban and introduce a structured policy framework that ensures passenger safety, licensing, and insurance regulations.
Bengaluru Bike Taxis Ban and Its Immediate Impact
The crackdown on bike taxis began on June 16, 2025, following the High Court’s refusal to stay an earlier order declaring bike taxi operations illegal.
The ruling cited the absence of state-level provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, preventing bike taxis from legally operating in Karnataka.
Authorities have seized over 100 bike taxis in Bengaluru alone, with RTO officials warning that enforcement will continue unless the state government introduces formal regulations.
The ban has forced app-based aggregators to suspend services, limiting their operations to parcel deliveries.
Gig Workers Face Financial Uncertainty
For many riders, bike taxis were not just a side income but their primary source of livelihood.
The Namma Bike Taxi Association highlighted that drivers often work 10–12 hours daily, braving harsh weather and traffic congestion to support their families.
One affected rider stated, “We ride in the sun, rain, and traffic for hours just to earn enough to feed our families. This ban has left us with no income overnight.”
The association has urged the government to engage in dialogue rather than impose a blanket ban.
Bike Taxis Ban: Public Outcry and Policy Demands
The ban has sparked widespread criticism from commuters and policy experts, who argue that bike taxis provide affordable last-mile connectivity in areas underserved by public transport.
Bengaluru alone records over 8 crore bike taxi rides annually, making them a critical mobility solution.
Social media users have voiced frustration, with one commuter stating, “Bengaluru’s traffic is unbearable. Bike taxis were the only way to get around quickly. The government should regulate them, not ban them.”
The Namma Bike Taxi Association has proposed a policy framework that includes:
- Licensing and registration for bike taxi operators.
- Mandatory insurance coverage for riders and passengers.
- Safety training programs for drivers.
- Fare regulations to prevent exploitation.
Government Response and Next Steps
While the Karnataka government has justified the ban on safety concerns, critics argue that policy inconsistency has worsened the situation.
The state had previously withdrawn the electric bike taxi scheme, further limiting options for gig workers.
The High Court’s next hearing on the matter is scheduled for June 24, 2025, where stakeholders hope for a revised approach that balances regulation with employment opportunities.
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