Even after the Karnataka High Court ruled in favour of bike taxis, riders on the streets continue to face hostility and intimidation. The court’s decision, delivered on January 23, was welcomed by bike taxi platforms, riders, and daily commuters who saw it as a win for affordable mobility. Bike Taxi Riders Face Continued Harassment Despite Karnataka High Court Clearance In contrast, autorickshaw unions reacted sharply against the ruling and have continued to resist the presence of bike taxis. According to riders, the situation on the ground has worsened since the earlier ban on bike taxis was lifted. Balaji Venkat, a 58-year-old bike taxi rider, said that aggression from auto drivers has increased rather than subsided after the court verdict. Describing his experience, he said, “They hurl all sorts of vile abuses at us, but it doesn’t just end there. The auto drivers have no fear of the law, and they come to attack us physically.” He recalled being attacked by a group of auto drivers while he was alone and said he had to dial 112 to seek emergency help. Following the incident, he chose not to retaliate and instead advised fellow riders to contact the police immediately rather than… Read MoreBusiness Archives – Trak.in – Indian Business of Tech, Mobile & Startups
