Drivers associated with ride-hailing and logistics platforms including Ola, Uber, Rapido, Porter and others participated in the strike. Union leaders said the protest could affect cab and bike-taxi availability, particularly in large urban centres such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, where dependence on app-based transport is high.
Unions argue that despite the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines-2025 providing a framework for fare regulation, neither the Centre nor state governments have notified a minimum base fare. They allege that this regulatory gap has allowed platform companies to set fares unilaterally, leading to reduced per-trip earnings while operating costs—fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance and commissions—continue to rise.
Sheikh Sallauddin, founder president of TGPWU and co-founder of IFAT, said the guidelines mandate consultation with recognised unions before fare fixation, but the process has not been implemented. He claimed that companies have steadily lowered fares, increased incentives-linked targets, and transferred most operational risks to drivers, forcing longer working hours for diminishing returns.
Industry estimates suggest around 3.5 million drivers are registered on Ola and Uber nationwide. The impact of the strike is expected to vary by city. In Bhopal, for instance, unions estimate about 15,000 Ola-Uber vehicles and nearly 3,000 Rapido bikes are registered, indicating potential disruptions if participation remains high.
The TGPWU has written to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, demanding immediate notification of a minimum fare and enforcement of the 2025 guidelines. Unions are also seeking transparent fare calculation, reduced commissions, and social security measures for gig workers.
Saturday’s action follows earlier protests by gig workers. On December 31, 2025, delivery riders affiliated with IFAT staged a nationwide strike against low pay, demanding better working conditions and social security. Following that protest, several quick-commerce platforms removed “10-minute delivery” claims from their branding.
Political reactions have also emerged. An Aam Aadmi Party MP said gig workers bear the brunt of pressure in the platform economy while companies continue to post strong revenues.
Unions said further action would depend on government response, warning that prolonged inaction could lead to repeated disruptions in app-based transport services.
