Take action against those obstructing bike taxi services: Karnataka HC to state

Bike Taxi Operators

The Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to protect bike taxi operators by taking strict action against any individuals or entities found unlawfully obstructing bike taxi riders from carrying out their services.

"The Writ Petition stands disposed of, directing the respondent (State of Karnataka) to take appropriate action against any person in the event they unlawfully obstruct the petitioners from operating the services of bike taxi," the order said dated March of 28th.

The Bike Taxi Welfare Association, which was one of the petitioners said that the move will be a boost to their fight against harassment, physical violence, vehicle damage, and obstruction faced by bike taxi riders from certain Auto unions and their members in Bangalore city.

"This order not only carries the weight of legal obligation but also marks a crucial stride towards ensuring the safety and security of all riders within our transportation landscape," the association said in a statement.

Represented by Senior Counsel Sri.K.N. Phanindra, the association filed a Writ petition =under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India, seeking relief from unlawful interference in their operations.

While petitioners include, Bike Taxi Welfare Association and other legal members, respondents of this case include State of Karnataka, Transport Department, Meta Platforms, Facebook India Online Services and others. Justice Hemant Chandangoudar passed the order.

The order comes nearly two years after A single-judge bench of the Karnataka High Court directed the transport authorities not to take any “coercive action” against the bike taxi service.

"Despite the order passed by this Court directing the State Government not to take any coercive steps, the police
concerned are not taking action against respondents who are unlawfully obstructing and assaulting the bike taxi riders from operating their services. The State is under obligation to take an appropriate action against any individual," the order passes noted.

Bike-taxi operation has been under the scanner by authorities due to safety issues and issues around transitioning to electric vehicles.

In fact, In July 2021, the then BJP-led state government introduced the Electric Bike Taxi Scheme in an attempt to improve first and last-mile connectivity from Metro, bus, and railway stations, as well as to create employment opportunities.

However, following protests by auto-rickshaw unions in Bengaluru, Karnataka government has withdrawn the Electric Bike Taxi Scheme.