The Karnataka High Court has overturned the state government’s blanket ban on bike-taxis, a decision that has major implications for urban mobility, gig workers, and transport policy in the state. The court held that preventing bike-taxi operations without a valid regulatory framework was disproportionate and violated the constitutional right to livelihood.
Background: Ban and Legal Challenge
The Karnataka government had introduced a ban on bike-taxis, citing concerns over safety, traffic violations, and regulatory gaps. The move affected thousands of riders employed through app-based platforms, effectively halting their ability to legally operate. Several bike-taxi operators and associations challenged the ban in the high court, arguing that the government should instead create guidelines to regulate the sector rather than prohibit it outright.
Court’s Ruling: Right to Livelihood and Proportionate Regulation
In its judgment, the High Court stated that citizens have a constitutional right to pursue a livelihood, which cannot be curtailed without clear legislative backing or compelling public interest that cannot be addressed by regulation alone. The court found that the government’s ban lacked a structured framework and failed to balance public safety with economic rights.
Instead of upholding the ban, the court directed the transport department to establish a regulatory framework under the Motor Vehicles Act. This framework must govern:
- Issuance of permits and licences to bike-taxi operators.
- Safety standards including helmet use, speed limits, and rider training.
- Insurance coverage requirements for riders and passengers.
- Enforcement mechanisms for compliance and penalties for violations.
Government’s Obligations and Deadlines
The court has ordered the state government and transport authorities to formulate and implement regulations within two months. During this period, the department must draft rules that allow orderly bike-taxi operations while ensuring passenger safety and traffic discipline.
The judgement makes clear that prohibition is not the solution where a regulatory path exists; instead, the government must integrate bike-taxis into the transport ecosystem through structured authorisation.
Impact on Riders and Urban Mobility
For bike-taxi riders, the ruling is a significant relief. Many had invested in vehicles, onboarding processes, and platform-linked training, only to find themselves unable to work due to the ban. With the court’s directive, eligible riders should soon be able to apply for permits and resume services legally.
For commuters in Bengaluru and other cities, regulated bike-taxis offer a flexible last-mile option, especially for short distances or areas underserved by buses and ride-hailing cars. They can reduce congestion, provide affordable mobility alternatives, and support employment in the gig economy.
Broader Implications
The ruling underscores a judicial preference for regulated integration over outright prohibition for emerging transport modes. It may prompt other states to revisit similar bans or unclear regulatory policies affecting app-based mobility services. By highlighting the balance between safety, public order, and livelihood rights, the High Court has set a significant precedent in transport jurisprudence.
