Particle.news

Download on the App Store

High Court Defers Karnataka Bike Taxi Ban Ruling as Riders Mount Protests

The statewide prohibition remains in force after the High Court adjourned the challenge to July 2, prompting riders to demand a fair licensing system.

Image
The crackdown came in the midst of increasing complaints from commuters and passengers in Bengaluru.
At 7 pm, one of the Bengaluru’s busiest slots, traffic consistently exceeded typical levels.
Image

Overview

  • The Karnataka High Court on June 25 deferred the hearing on legal challenges to its April directive that outlawed bike taxi operations, setting the next session for July 2.
  • Since the June 16 ban, Bengaluru’s evening congestion has climbed from an average of 59% to peaks above 77%, while auto-rickshaw fares have risen by up to 25%.
  • More than 5,000 bike taxi riders converged on Bengaluru’s Vidhana Soudha on June 25 to submit petitions urging the government to reinstate services under a clear regulatory framework.
  • Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan has called for strict enforcement of a ₹35 minimum fare cap on app-based autos to curb unchecked surge pricing and protect commuters.
  • The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union has urged its government to follow Karnataka’s example by banning bike taxis, highlighting a growing nationwide debate over gig-economy transport regulation.