Private Transport Operators Launch Black Flag Protest in Bengaluru

The Federation of Private Transport Organisations on Friday launched a black flag protest in Bengaluru, demanding immediate action against app-based bike-taxi services and the strict implementation of government-prescribed fares by transport aggregators.

The federation has given the Karnataka state government a 15-day deadline to resolve its complaints. Until that period ends, drivers and operators will register their opposition by displaying black flags on autorickshaws and taxis across Bengaluru and other districts.

Federation president S Nataraj Sharma said the organisation has submitted formal complaints to both the transport commissioner and the commissioner of police. The complaints seek action against companies allegedly operating bike-taxi platforms without the required regulatory licences.

Addressing the demand for a 'One City, One Fare' framework, Sharma insisted that all aggregators, taxi operators, and metered transport services must adhere strictly to the fare structure set by the state government. He alleged that app platforms are inflating charges during periods of peak demand and heavy rain.

"Passengers should not be made to pay more during peak hours and less when demand is low," Sharma said, clarifying that the federation does not object to aggregators collecting their legally permitted commission over the government-fixed base fare.

The organisation has also demanded legal scrutiny of aggregators that allegedly claim on their platforms and social media channels that they hold authorization to run bike-taxis. Sharma alleged that licences held by some aggregator firms apply solely to car taxi services and do not permit two-wheeler commercial operations. He called for investigations under cybercrime laws and the Information Technology Act, along with the recovery of penalties and an alleged 2% royalty fee owed to the government under aggregator regulations.

Furthermore, the federation highlighted safety and passenger liability issues, stating that commercial transport operations require adequate insurance coverage and clear accountability mechanisms in the event of road accidents.

Sharma warned that if the government fails to address the federation's demands within the 15-day window, private transport operators will consider calling for a Bengaluru bandh.