Uber Reinstates Bike Taxi Services in Karnataka Amid Rapido Restart

Uber has resumed its bike taxi services in Bengaluru, days after Rapido restarted its services. The Karnataka High Court clarified that it did not issue any orders during the bike taxi hearing on August 20, allowing them to operate in the state. However, bike taxi drivers in the state are not confident about taking rides, as the court is yet to pass an order in the case.

Uber has resumed its bike taxi services in Bengaluru, following the Karnataka High Court's clarification on August 20 that it has not passed any order allowing bike taxi services in the state. This comes after the court slammed the state government for its ban on bike taxis, questioning its legality. The court noted that the state cannot deny livelihoods by citing the absence of a formal policy, as per Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution.

The court's clarification has led to a temporary resumption of services by Uber and Ola, although Rapido continues to operate under the name 'Bike Direct'. The court has given the government until September 22 to decide whether it intends to frame a policy on bike taxis. This move has brought relief to many riders and ride-hailers, but bike taxi drivers in the state remain cautious due to the lack of a definitive court order.

The Karnataka High Court's stance on the issue underscores the importance of clear policy and regulation in the ride-hailing sector. The court's observations highlight the need for the state government to address the legal and operational aspects of bike taxi services, ensuring that they do not arbitrarily deprive individuals of their right to work.

References:
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/industry/news/karnataka-bike-taxi-rapido-uber-ola-high-court-order-125082500649_1.html
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/a23-owner-head-digital-works-moves-karnataka-hc-against-new-online-gaming-law/articleshow/123556791.cms