Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha and Indian Gig Workers Forum said illegal bike taxi services are operating openly across the country despite repeated warnings from transport authorities
The strike will involve drivers associated with app-based platforms as well, a statement issued by the union stated. Representational Pic/File
Cab and auto-rickshaw drivers across India will observe a nationwide one-day strike on February 7, 2026, protesting against illegal bike taxi services and what they describe as unfair fare policies of app-based companies including Ola, Uber and Rapido, the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha and Indian Gig Workers Forum said in an official statement on Friday.
The strike will involve drivers associated with app-based platforms as well as traditional cab and auto-rickshaw operators, it said.
Driver unions said illegal bike taxi services are operating openly across the country despite repeated warnings from transport authorities.
They claimed that such services have led to fatal accidents in Mumbai, resulting in deaths and permanent disabilities.
As bike taxi services are not legally permitted in several states, accident victims are often denied insurance coverage, which unions described as a serious public safety concern.
According to the unions, the Transport Department has issued multiple written instructions to companies such as Ola, Uber and Rapido, asking them to follow government-approved rules.
However, driver representatives alleged that these companies continue to defy official orders and that no strict action has been taken against them so far.
Panic button costs burden drivers
Drivers also raised concerns over the installation of panic button devices, saying they are being financially exploited in the process.
While the Central Government has approved 140 panic button service providers, the State Government has reportedly declared nearly 70 per cent of these companies unauthorised. This has forced drivers to remove previously installed devices and spend around Rs 12,000 again to install new ones, adding to their financial stress.
Auto permit policy adds to woes
Another key issue highlighted is the government’s open auto-rickshaw permit policy, which has led to a sharp rise in the number of auto-rickshaws on the roads.
Union leaders said this has reduced drivers’ incomes and worsened traffic congestion in major cities.
The strike is being organised to draw the government’s attention to these issues and to press for what drivers describe as their legitimate demands.
Dr Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, President of the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha and the Indian Gig Workers Forum, said, "The one-day strike is a democratic step to seek fair regulation, driver safety and economic justice."
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