Bengaluru, June 15:With Karnataka’s bike taxi ban taking effect from Monday, members of the Namma Bike Taxi Association have appealed to Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, seeking urgent intervention to safeguard the livelihoods of gig workers across the state.
The appeal comes in the wake of the Karnataka High Court’s refusal to stay the state government’s ban on bike taxis, leaving over 1,00,000 riders—largely students, daily-wage earners, and informal workers—without a source of income. The Association called the decision a direct blow to those who depend on the platform economy to survive.
“Over 1,00,000 gig workers in Bengaluru and across Karnataka are losing our right to earn and feed our families because of a blanket ban on bike taxi services,” the Association wrote. “As their collective voice, this is an appeal to you to stop this ban and help us earn our daily bread with dignity.”
Citing media reports that the Transport Department is preparing to crack down on bike taxi operations and has no intention to regulate them, the Association said the decision fails to consider the devastating human cost. “We ride in the hot sun, heavy rain, and traffic to keep the city moving. This is how we pay rent, school fees, and medical bills,” the letter read.
Many riders turned to gig work following job losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and now fear a return to economic instability. “Some of us work all seven days, 10 to 12 hours a day. Bike taxis have been a lifeline, not just a job,” the group added.
The Association acknowledged that concerns over safety, insurance, and helmet quality are valid, but criticised the government’s decision to impose a blanket ban instead of creating a regulatory framework. “Instead of introducing clear rules for licensing, training, and insurance, the Transport Department has chosen to ban the source of income without considering the impact it can have on drivers,” it said.
They also pointed out the wider impact on commuters. “Many use bike taxis for quick, low-cost rides. These are the only affordable rides for thousands, especially where buses are few. We do nearly 8 crore trips in a year. Who will help these riders now?” the letter questioned.
Calling the ban a reversal of progressive steps taken for gig workers in Karnataka, including the implementation of social security codes and the formation of welfare boards, the Association said the move was eroding the hope created by earlier reforms. “What is the use of benefits if we are not even allowed to work?” they asked.
Concluding with a call for dialogue, the letter urged the government to reconsider its decision and work towards a solution that balances regulation with livelihood. “Talk to us. Help us find a way so that passengers can travel safely, rules are followed, and our families can survive.”
