Karnataka HC gives state government one month to clarify stand on bike taxi rules

The ban on bike taxi aggregators was imposed on June 16, leaving many commuters stranded, particularly for short-distance travel.
| Photo Credit:
SUDHAKARA JAIN

The Karnataka High Court has given the state government one month to decide whether it wants to frame rules for bike taxi aggregators, following appeals challenging the current ban on their operations.

The ban on bike taxi aggregators was imposed on June 16, leaving many commuters stranded, particularly for short-distance travel. Users have reported a surge in fares for auto-rickshaws and cabs, with limited affordable alternatives available in the absence of bike taxis.

During the hearing, the High Court questioned the state’s rationale, arguing, “Your congestion arguments run contrary to your policy of last-mile connectivity. Is there material evidence to show that bikes are causing congestion? Do you believe that autos will cause less congestion?” The court added, “If you’re willing to consider the representation and frame a policy, the whole tenor of this challenge will change.”

After pointing out the contradictions, the HC has decided to defer the hearing to September 22. It said, “Give it a thought, there are lives at stake here.”

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Joshi heard appeals filed by ride-hailing companies Rapido, Uber and Ola. The companies were challenging a single-judge order that banned bike taxi operations in the state unless the government frames specific rules and guidelines.

The court declined to pass an interim order, stating, “When a decision is being taken by the state, we cannot put everything on freeze. We are not passing any interim order at this time.”

The High Court also raised questions about trade rights, asking, “Are you saying that there is no right to carry on a legitimate trade? Every trade is permissible unless specifically regulated, this is not res extra commercium (outside the scope of commerce).”

Bike Taxi welfare Association welcomed the observations of the Karnataka HC.

“The Karnataka High Court’s progressive stance marks a critical moment in the recognition of bike taxis as a vital part of the urban mobility ecosystem. This development calls upon the State government to engage constructively and work towards a robust regulatory framework rather than an outright prohibition,” said Adi Narayan, President, Bike Taxi Welfare Association.

“The Bike Taxi Welfare Association applauds the Court’s balanced and thoughtful observations, reiterating its commitment to collaborating with the government and stakeholders to ensure that bike taxi services operate safely, legally and sustainably, benefitting commuters and operators alike,” he added.

Published on August 20, 2025