Bengaluru Uber Drivers Stage Massive Protest Against Discrimination and Unfair Work Practices

Protesters have accused Uber of violating Karnataka's One City, One Fare policy. (Representational)

Bengaluru:

On Monday, hundreds of cab drivers organized a significant protest outside Uber's headquarters near Bommanahalli in Bengaluru. The demonstrators accused the ride-hailing giant of discrimination, work denial, and implementing predatory surge pricing practices.

The drivers claimed that Kannadiga drivers are being systematically blocked from the app, while drivers from Bangladesh and other states—some allegedly operating without valid licenses—are receiving preferential treatment for ride assignments.

Organized by the Bharat Transport Association, the protest quickly intensified, forcing police to disperse the crowd with lathi charges and detain several protesters. Authorities also deployed a platoon from the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) to maintain order at the scene.

As protesters surrounded the building, Uber employees closed the office doors. Drivers alleged that the company was prioritizing trips to outstation and foreign drivers, as well as to company-owned vehicles, while sidelining drivers who had joined the platform independently.

Many protesters revealed they had invested hundreds of thousands of rupees to purchase vehicles after receiving assurances from Uber, but now find themselves unable to meet EMI payments or cover household expenses due to insufficient bookings.

"Without trips, we cannot pay our EMIs or manage household expenses. We trusted the company and invested our money, but now we have no work," one protesting driver explained.

The protesters further alleged that Uber was violating Karnataka's 'One City, One Fare' policy by charging passengers double rates during peak hours, rainfall, or high-demand periods, despite repeated complaints filed with police and transport authorities.

Tensions escalated when staff locked the office doors, prompting police to attempt entry using an iron rod. When the doors were finally opened, Uber employees reportedly exited through the back entrance. Senior police officials subsequently engaged in discussions with Uber representatives, who indicated that senior management was en route to address the drivers' grievances.

However, the protesters remained steadfast, refusing to disperse until senior officials arrived for direct negotiations. As the standoff continued, additional police forces were summoned, resulting in another round of lathi charges and further detentions of drivers.

An official statement from Uber regarding the incident is still pending.