🚨 Karnataka Bike Taxi Ban: Riders Protest, Seek Rahul Gandhi & CM Siddaramaiah’s Intervention
Karnataka’s bike taxi ban triggers protests as riders appeal to Rahul Gandhi and CM Siddaramaiah. The gig economy faces a new urban transport crisis.
🏍️ Introduction: A Ban That Shook the Gig Economy
In a major move that has sparked widespread debate, the Karnataka government implemented a ban on bike taxi services, citing regulatory concerns. While the decision may have administrative intentions, it has hit thousands of riders—commonly referred to as “pilots”—who depend on these services for daily income. As the issue grows, bike taxi riders have turned to political leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for support, hoping for intervention in what is rapidly becoming an urban transport crisis.
📅 When Was the Karnataka Bike Taxi Ban Implemented?
The Karnataka bike taxi ban officially came into effect in June 2025. The government stated that the services were operating without valid transport permits, violating the Motor Vehicles Act. This decision came after multiple legal warnings and enforcement drives targeting app-based platforms such as Rapido, Uber Moto, and Ola Bike.
💼 Livelihoods in Jeopardy: How the Ban Affects Riders
For many riders, bike taxi services are their primary source of income, offering flexibility and modest earnings in a gig-driven economy. Post-ban:
- Thousands of riders have reported losses between ₹800–₹1,200 per day.
- Some have defaulted on bike loan EMIs due to the sudden income disruption.
- Many are now jobless, as their skills and resources are tied exclusively to these services.
🧑💼 Rider’s Voices:
“This bike is my livelihood. Without the platform, I can’t earn. We need support, not punishment,” said Ravi, a former Rapido pilot in Bengaluru.
📣 Public Reactions and Protests: A Growing Uproar
The ban has triggered protests across Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi, where affected riders staged sit-ins and submitted memorandums demanding a reversal. Activists and gig worker unions have also joined the protests, calling the move “regressive” and “anti-poor.”
🙏 Riders Seek Political Help: Rahul Gandhi & CM Siddaramaiah in Focus
Recognizing the political significance of the issue, several riders have directly appealed to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The appeals emphasize:
- The urgent need to legalize and regulate bike taxis instead of banning them.
- The importance of preserving jobs in the gig economy in India.