Bike Taxi Riders Stage Protest In Bengaluru, Urge Policy Framework

A small group of bike taxi riders staged a protest in front of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru. The riders rue losing out on their source of income, seek for reversal of the ban, and a clear policy framework.

The bike taxi drivers gathered in front of Vidhana Soudha to convey their grievances, albeit where dispersed by the police for not having required permission to gather in front of the Vidhana Soudha.

Ravi, a bike taxi rider said, “Riding bike taxis is the only source of income for me, I used to make Rs2000 a day, and take care of all my family's expenses. Since the ban I've had no source of income, and am surviving on some petty savings for now. If the ban reversal doesn't happen, it will get even more difficult for me, and it will still take time for me to get a new gig.”

Riders of bike taxis are asking the government to implement a suitable policy that addresses safety and regulatory issues while enabling them to return to work. Additionally, riders have pointed out that 19 other Indian states currently have laws governing bike taxis that permit them to function effectively.

Another bike taxi rider Laxmi Sagar said, “My children's school fees are due, expenses are only mounting, the ban has come at a worst time for me. Lakhs of people depend on bike taxis to earn a living, i request the government to come up with a policy that we will all follow, we are all for doing things the right way, but a complete ban just kills our livelihood.”

Bike taxi services have been suspended across Karnataka following a high court order that came into effect on Monday. The ban has caused disruption in Bengaluru, with commuters expressing disappointment on losing out on a cheap commute mode, and bike taxi drivers voicing distress over losing a crucial source of income.

Last Friday, Karnataka High Court refused to stay a single-judge bench's order suspending bike taxi services, putting the ban in effect. The ban will be in effect at least until June 24, as the matter has been adjourned.