Centre for Liberty Condemns Karnataka’s Bike Taxi Ban as a Blow to Freedom, Jobs, and Innovation

The Centre for Liberty strongly criticizes Karnataka’s ban on bike-taxi services like Rapido, Ola, and Uber, calling it a regressive move that harms innovation, mobility, and livelihoods.

Over one lakh riders have been left jobless overnight. Commuters—especially low-income and young workers—lose a vital, efficient option in a city gridlocked by traffic. In a place that calls itself the “Silicon Valley of India,” this step severely undermines Bengaluru’s global image.

The High Court upheld the state’s decision, even as the Karnataka government openly refused to consider any future regulatory framework for bike-taxis. This signals a dangerous aversion to modern, inclusive transport policy.

The Centre for Liberty believes this ban punishes innovation, workers, and consumers alike. It urges the Karnataka government to reverse course and adopt policies that safeguard choice, jobs, and economic progress.

Media Contact
Ajay Mallareddy, Centre for Liberty
ajay@centreforliberty.org