Telangana: Riding bike taxi ‘illegal’? Gig workers union raises concerns

Hailing a bike taxi and using the service to cover a certain distance and paying for the service could be an illegal action, as per Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU). The union has raised serious concerns over the continued operation of bike taxis by digital platforms like Rapido, Ola and Uber in the state. They said that the activity was thriving despite clear rules forbidding such services. The TGPWU said that the practice was putting passengers, drivers as well as state revenue at risk.

 

They pointed out that going by the transport regulations, two-wheelers with regular number plates were meant for personal use and not meant for commercial services. However, they accused apps like Rapido, Ola, and Uber flouting laws and continuing to operate bike taxi services openly, thereby allowing private vehicles to ferry passengers.

 

The TGPWU alleged that the companies were prioritising profits over legal compliance and public welfare. They said it was also leading to exploitation of poor riders.

 

“While these companies continue to collect hefty commissions, poor, unemployed youth are being misled into thinking bike taxi operations are legal. When caught by enforcement authorities, it is the drivers who face penalties, pushing them further into poverty and economic distress. Targeting poor drivers is unjust. The real culprits are the companies promoting illegal operations,” said Shaik Salauddin, TGPWU founder president.

 

The union has demanded that Telangana transport ministry intervene on the issue and enforce law. They want strict penalties to be imposed on companies like Rapido, Ola, and Uber if they continue allowing private (white plate) vehicles to operate on their platforms. The TGPWU also appeals to the government for immediate halt to bike taxi operations in Telangana. The members also want protection for riders, offering them alternative legal livelihood options.

 

"We urge the government to act swiftly before this illegality grows further. Companies cannot be allowed to exploit legal loopholes while poor drivers bear the consequences," added Salauddin. He pointed out that multiple state governments have already banned the bike taxi services and urged the Telangana state to follow suit. 

India