Nationwide Strike by App-Based Taxi and Delivery Drivers
On February 7, app-based taxi drivers and delivery workers across India initiated a nationwide strike, protesting against declining incomes, rising operational costs, and exploitation by gig economy platforms. The All-India Breakdown organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers aimed to highlight the dire situation faced by gig workers.
The strike brought together drivers from major app-based services including Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Porter. The unions emphasized the crucial need for the central and state governments to implement minimum base fare regulations under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines issued in 2025, which they argue have been disregarded.
Background on the Protests
The unions asserted that the lack of governmental action on fare regulation has empowered aggregator companies to set prices without adequate consultation with workers. As a result, many drivers are forced to work longer hours just to make ends meet while bearing financial risks without sufficient protections.
Shaik Salauddin, the founder president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union, expressed concern about deteriorating working conditions. He stated, “The Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, clearly mandate consultation with recognized worker unions before fare fixation. However, governments have failed to act, enabling platforms to deepen exploitation.” Salauddin’s comments reflect a growing frustration among gig workers nationwide.
Specific Demands and Challenges
Call for Minimum Base Fares
A significant point of contention during the strike was the demand for minimum base fares. Union leaders argue that without this regulation, app-based companies can continue to reduce prices, ultimately harming the income and livelihoods of workers. The lack of a structured fare system means that drivers are often at the mercy of fluctuating prices determined solely by the platforms.
Additionally, the protest coincided with a separate strike initiated by the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, addressing issues such as the proliferation of illegal bike taxi services and technical challenges surrounding mandatory panic button installations. These problems have compounded financial pressure on drivers, compelling them to replace panic button devices at significant costs.
Financial Burdens from Device Regulations
According to union statements, up to 70% of privately approved panic button providers by the state are currently labeled as unauthorized, leading taxi drivers to incur unnecessary expenses. Concerning this issue, the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha highlighted that drivers have had to spend around ₹12,000 to remove and reinstall panic buttons, adding to their financial distress.
In an age where most services require precise safety assurances, the impact of inconsistent regulations has been detrimental. Many drivers feel trapped, navigating complex compliance issues that ultimately affect their earnings.
Support and Impacts on Services
Despite the strike, reports indicated that app-based services like Uber, Ola, and Rapido continued to operate in various regions. However, the participation rate in Maharashtra was substantial, indicating widespread unrest among taxi and autorickshaw drivers. Dr. Keshav Kshirsagar, head of the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, acknowledged the solidarity displayed by drivers in the state.
The unions have expressed that persistent grievances concerning income loss and operational challenges remain unresolved, especially with the growing number of autorickshaws being introduced under an open permit policy. The concerns extended to issues about compensation for gig workers involved in accidents with illegal bike taxis, which many are not covered for due to regulatory gaps.
Recent Trends in Worker Actions
This strike is part of a broader trend in which gig workers have increasingly mobilized to voice their concerns. Just weeks earlier, delivery personnel organized similar actions protesting low wages and lack of protections during peak working hours. This growing momentum has raised awareness about the plight of workers in the gig economy, who form the backbone of many successful tech-driven businesses.
During an interview, an AAP Member of Parliament highlighted that while companies in the gig economy have achieved massive valuations, the workers supporting them receive inadequate compensation for their essential contributions. He noted, “In today’s time, gig workers are under immense pressure while these big companies thrive on their efforts.” The statement underscores the widening wage gap and the urgent need for legislative intervention.
Legislative Action and Union Response
Amid escalating protests, gig workers met with Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, to advocate for laws that protect their interests. According to Salauddin, this meeting involved discussions on pressing concerns, and he specifically praised Karnataka for being the first state to introduce comprehensive legislation for gig workers.
As agitation continues, union leaders are adamant that they will keep pushing for reforms until economic protections and fare regulations are enforced. Salauddin reiterated the devastation wrought by the lack of formal regulations governing fare structures and worker protections, calling for actions from both central and state governments.
Future Directions and Continuing Actions
Unions have made it clear that the protests are likely to linger until substantial changes materialize. As underlying issues affecting gig workers continue to mount, the framework for protection and equitable payment structures is becoming increasingly critical. These are the voices of workers who have, until now, been operating without the safeguards typical of conventional employment.
Without addressing these core challenges, both the economic and social fabric of the gig economy may remain strained, which could lead to further disruptions. It is evident that a recalibration of the relationship between gig platforms and their workforce is on the horizon.