The restriction on bike taxi aggregators was troubled June 16, leaving lots of commuters stranded, especially for short-distance travel.|Picture Credit: SUDHAKARA JAIN
The Karnataka High Court has actually provided the state federal government one month to choose whether it wishes to frame guidelines for bike taxi aggregators, following appeals challenging the present restriction on their operations.
The restriction on bike taxi aggregators was troubled June 16, leaving lots of commuters stranded, especially for short-distance travel. Users have actually reported a rise in fares for auto-rickshaws and taxis, with minimal budget-friendly options offered in the lack of bike taxis.
Throughout the hearing, the High Court questioned the state’s reasoning, arguing, “Your blockage arguments run contrary to your policy of last-mile connection. Exists product proof to reveal that bikes are triggering blockage? Do you think that cars will trigger less blockage?” The court included, “If you’re ready to think about the representation and frame a policy, the entire tenor of this difficulty will alter.”
After explaining the contradictions, the HC has actually chosen to delay the hearing to September 22. It stated, “Give it an idea, there are lives at stake here.”
A department bench consisting of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Joshi heard appeals submitted by ride-hailing business Rapido, Uber and Ola. The business were challenging a single-judge order that prohibited bike taxi operations in the state unless the federal government frames particular guidelines and standards.
The court decreased to pass an interim order, specifying, “When a choice is being taken by the state, we can not put whatever on freeze. We are not passing any interim order at this time.”
The High Court likewise raised concerns about trade rights, asking, “Are you stating that there is no right to continue a genuine trade? Every trade is allowable unless particularly managed, this is not res additional commercium (outside the scope of commerce).”
Bike Taxi well-being Association invited the observations of the Karnataka HC.
“The Karnataka High Court’s progressive position marks a defining moment in the acknowledgment of bike cabs as an important part of the city movement community. This advancement hires the State federal government to engage constructively and work towards a robust regulative structure instead of a straight-out restriction,” stated Adi Narayan, President, Bike Taxi Welfare Association.
“The Bike Taxi Welfare Association praises the Court’s well balanced and thoughtful observations, restating its dedication to teaming up with the federal government and stakeholders to make sure that bike taxi services run securely, lawfully and sustainably, benefitting commuters and operators alike,” he included.
Released on August 20, 2025
