Auto-rickshaw owners and drivers in Belagavi have staged a protest against online ride-hailing platforms such as Rapido, Ola and Uber, alleging that their operations are affecting the livelihoods of traditional auto-rickshaw drivers.
The Belagavi Auto-Rickshaw Owners and Drivers Association has submitted a formal complaint to the Karnataka government and concerned authorities, seeking an inquiry into whether these companies possess the mandatory licences and permits required to operate passenger transport services.
The association has alleged that traditional auto-rickshaw drivers must comply with transport regulations, including permit requirements and vehicle documentation, while questioning whether the same rules are being followed by the online platforms. It maintains that any alleged non-compliance puts drivers operating within the legal framework at a disadvantage.
The association has urged the Transport Department and the administration to investigate the matter under Karnataka’s auto-rickshaw regulations and the Motor Vehicles Act. It has also demanded legal action against the companies and those responsible if violations are established.
The protesters have called for the authorities to intervene, citing the impact of these services on the income and livelihoods of traditional auto-rickshaw drivers.