Bike Taxi Ban In Karnataka: A massive protest erupted in Karnataka after the state government banned bike taxi service. Thousands of bike taxi drivers on Sunday initiated a hunger strike along with their family members in Bengaluru, Mysore, Mandya, Davangere and Ramanagara districts, urging the government to revoke its ban on the service.

Riders said the government’s move has impacted their livelihood as they are now jobless and unable to feed their families. They have requested Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to lift the ban, asserting that they were ready to comply with the guidelines issued by the government.

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“In a final plea to be heard, we are now preparing to go on an indefinite hunger strike if our voices continue to be ignored. This is not out of protest, but sheer helplessness—hoping someone will listen before it’s too late. We are students, single mothers, homemakers, and former migrant workers who have returned to our home state to work and contribute meaningfully. The flexibility this work offers has empowered lakhs, especially in areas where other livelihood options are limited. Both jobs are part of the gig economy, governed by the same Motor Vehicles Act. This inconsistency feels unjust and discriminatory. We ask only for equal treatment under a clear, inclusive policy framework. We are ready to comply with all guidelines, but we seek clarity, dignity, and the right to earn a livelihood,”the union said in an open letter to the CM.

The Bike Taxi Welfare Association also submitted a memorandum to Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy in this regard.

“This is how we pay our kids’ school fees, take care of our parents, and put food on the table. Without this, we have nothing,” The New Indian Express quoted a rider as saying.

The Bike Taxi Owners Association also filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court seeking the withdrawal of the bike taxi ban. The petitioners argue that bike taxis were not a luxury, but a necessity.

Earlier, the Karnataka High Court had refused to suspend a single judge’s order banning operations of bike taxis until the state government creates proper rules under the Motor Vehicles Act. A deadline was set by the court to cease operations of bike taxis, which was later extended till June 15. The court then asked all parties to submit their responses by June 24.

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The case will be considered again on July 2.