Thousands of bike taxi riders from across Karnataka are riding into Bengaluru’s Vidhana Soudha, demanding that the State government revoke the ongoing ban on bike taxis and introduce a formal policy to regulate the sector.

Riders from Mysuru, Mandya, Tumkur, Hassan, Davangere, Shivamogga, Kanakapura, and other towns are joining the protest, calling the move a “cry for help.”

The riders, representing a fraction of the estimated 6 lakh individuals affected by the ban, said that the decision has stripped them of not only their income but their dignity. With no alternative employment and growing household expenses, many families are struggling to afford basic needs like food and school fees.

Organisers estimate that over 5,000 riders are participating in the rally, which they describe as a peaceful appeal for livelihood restoration.

“Before the ban, I could earn enough to keep my family going. Now there’s no money coming in. We’re skipping meals and I can’t pay my child’s school fees,” said Ramesh, a rider from Tumkur.

Ravi, a father of two from Mysore, echoed the sentiment. “The rent is overdue, the electricity bill is piling up. This ban hasn’t just taken away our jobs—it’s taken away our dignity.”

The riders are appealing for a clear and fair policy that allows them to resume work under regulatory oversight. They emphasise that bike taxis serve an essential role in Karnataka’s mobility ecosystem, offering affordable and efficient transport to commuters while providing employment to thousands.

Precedent policies

Their appeal gains strength from precedent: 19 other Indian States already have policy frameworks that regulate bike taxi operations. Riders question why Karnataka, often seen as a progressive State, has lagged behind.

“This isn’t just about us making money,” said Priya, a rider from Mandya. “It’s about keeping our families alive. We are ready to follow any rules—just give us a chance to work.”

The riders hope that their peaceful rally will push the government to act swiftly. Without intervention, they say, the ban will continue to erode not just livelihoods, but hope.

This comes after the Karnatak government banned bike-taxis which has affected users and riders reported businessline earlier.

Published on June 21, 2025