Bike taxi riders decry double standards in Karnataka’s transport policy

Alleging a double standard by Karnataka’s Transport Department on gig workers, members of the Bike Taxi Welfare Association have written an open letter to Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, urging the government not to take away their right to earn a living.

The riders questioned why two-wheeler delivery agents are allowed to operate freely with white number plates, while bike taxi riders using the same vehicles are penalised for passenger transport.

“It is difficult to understand why two-wheelers used for delivery services are allowed, while those of us providing passenger transport using the same vehicles are subjected to restrictions,” the association said in the letter.

“This inconsistency not only threatens our livelihoods but also sends a message that local youth are being excluded from opportunities owing to arbitrary regulatory differences,” Adi Naryanan, president of Bike Taxi Welfare Association, stated.

The association, which represents thousands of gig workers across Karnataka, especially in cities like Bengaluru, said bike taxis have become essential for last-mile connectivity.

“Bike-taxis provide affordable, fast and accessible transport to working-class citizens, students, and female commuters. Many of the riders earn ₹30,000 to ₹35,000 a month, which supports their families, children’s education, and elderly parents. For us, riding a bike taxi is not just a means of transport. It is our bread and butter, our hope for a better future,” the letter reads.

The letter highlighted that many riders hail from modest backgrounds across Karnataka and said the nature of the work offers them dignity, flexibility, and a sense of purpose. It urged the government to formulate a fair and inclusive policy.