Karnataka Govt Examines Policy Shift on Legalising Bike Taxis

The Karnataka Government is examining the possibility of introducing a policy to permit bike taxi operations in the state, as per The Economic Times reports. This comes even as it has approached the Supreme Court of India against a recent ruling of the Karnataka High Court.  

Officials have indicated that the special leave petition (SLP) filed by the state is limited to pointing out technical issues in the High Court’s January 23 order and is not directly connected to any policy decision. 

Background of the Dispute 

Bike taxi services were halted in March 2024 after the state government cited non-compliance with its electric vehicle policy. Ride-hailing firms including Ola, Uber and Rapido challenged the ban.  

In April 2024, a single-judge bench held that such services could not operate without a formal regulatory framework in place. 

High Court Ruling and Aftermath 

In January 2025, a division bench of the High Court set aside the earlier order and allowed bike taxis to resume operations. The court directed operators to seek registration of 2-wheelers as transport vehicles or contract carriages.  

It also stated that applications should not be rejected solely on the basis that motorcycles are not typically classified as transport vehicles, while retaining the state’s authority to examine such requests. 

Stakeholder Concerns 

Uncertainty over the regulatory framework has led to concerns among riders. The Bike Taxi Welfare Association wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on April 21, highlighting the financial strain faced by those dependent on such services.  

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had also raised the issue, referring to the impact on around 6 lakh riders and the role of bike taxis in last-mile connectivity. 

State’s Position 

In its petition before the apex court, the state has argued that permitting motorcycles as taxis falls within its regulatory discretion. It has also stated that the High Court’s directions amount to judicial overreach.  

According to the government, restrictions on bike taxi operations are linked to safety considerations and broader transport policy. 

Read More: Govt Strengthens Drug Quality Oversight With IPC Partnerships! 

Conclusion 

The issue remains under judicial review, while discussions on a formal policy are ongoing. The Centre permits bike taxis under existing guidelines, but implementation continues to depend on state-level decisions. 

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