Bike taxi riders demand policy framework; stage peaceful protest outside Vidhana Soudha over ban

Over 5,000 bike taxi riders from across Karnataka gathered in front of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Saturday for a peaceful protest against the ban on their services. The protestors demanded a proper policy framework to operate the bike taxis in the State.

They claimed that the suspension of bike taxi services has left around 6 lakh riders in despair and took out a bike rally.

The riders from various districts, including Mysuru, Mandya, Hassan, Davangere, Tumakuru, Bengaluru South, and Shivamogga, participated in the protest. Some of the protesters were detained by the Vidhana Soudha police and released later.

“When I was a bike taxi driver, I was easily earning ₹2,500 per day. Since the ban was imposed, I have been working as a food delivery agent, and I have only been able to earn around ₹800 - 900 per day. I hope the government helps us. I am expecting the Transport Minister to address this,” said Asif Ali, who had come near Vidhana Soudha to mark his protest. He said that he was working as a bike taxi rider across three apps before the ban.

“I have two children and a wife depending on me, and now I don’t know how to manage. The rent is overdue, the electricity bill is piling up, and I’m borrowing money just to keep things going. This ban has not just taken away our job but also our dignity,” said Ravi, a bike taxi rider from Mysuru.

The protestors urged the government to bring in a proper policy that allows them to get back to work while addressing safety and regulation concerns. They pointed out that bike taxis are an important part of the State’s transport system, providing jobs for thousands.

With the right rules in place, bike taxis can continue to benefit everyone, they said. They also highlighted that 19 other States across India already have policies in place for bike taxis, allowing them to operate safely and efficiently.

“It has been a week since the ban has been imposed, and I feel like I have no work,” said Rajkumar Upadhyaya, a bike taxi rider from Bengaluru. He said that he was ready to follow any rules the government imposes if it means that he can continue his job.  “If I am asked to use a yellow board, I am ready for that too. I am ready if the government puts in place uniforms for bike taxi riders.”

He further said, “I sincerely plead with the government to allow me to continue my work. It’s not easy to find new jobs either. To earn even ₹20,000 in Bengaluru is not easy.”

Many riders said that they are awaiting the Karnataka High Court hearing that is scheduled for June 24 on this matter and hoping good news.