Uber, Ola, Rapido Call for a Nationwide Strike: What are Their Demands?

Why Ola, Uber, and Rapido Drivers are Holding a Strike on 7 February: Commuter Impact and Key Demands Explained

Commuters across India may experience significant travel disruptions as thousands of transport workers plan a coordinated nationwide strike this Saturday, 7 February 2026. The ‘All India Breakdown,’ organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and supported by several national labor bodies, will see Uber, Ola, and Rapido drivers go offline for at least six hours.

This protest aims to force government intervention regarding the ‘endless exploitation’ of gig workers and the lack of regulated minimum fares.

Why Drivers are Pulling the Plug on Digital Platforms

Drivers are frustrated about their income as ride-hailing companies charge a high commission for each trip. Additionally, high fuel prices and expensive vehicle repairs are a dent in riders’ finances. Considering all these factors, drivers take home minimal pay. The situation emphasises that the current system is unfair to hard-working people.

A major problem is a rule called Clause 17.3, which lets companies drop prices to the lowest. "Millions of app-based drivers are pushed into poverty while aggregators profit," the TGPWU stated in a recent social media post. Additionally, drivers do not like that private cars are being used for commercial rides. They believe this makes it harder for professional drivers to earn a living. Overall, they demand that the government set a minimum price for every trip.

The ‘Bharat Taxi’ Factor: Is a Government-Backed Rival the Real End Game?

A new service called Bharat Taxi was recently launched on 5 February 2026. This service is supported by the government and is built to compete directly with Uber, Ola, and Rapido. Private companies often take 20% to 30% commission from drivers; however, Bharat Taxi does not take a percentage. Instead, drivers pay a small flat fee of about Rs. 30 per day.

Bharat Taxi gives drivers better benefits, like insurance and low-interest loans. It also has a special program for female drivers called ‘Sarathi Didi.’ This new app could be 30% cheaper for passengers. Many drivers might switch to this new app permanently after the strike on 7 February.

This strike shows that the gig economy in India is changing; it is not just a one-day protest. In the near future, ‘Bharat Taxi’ might become the most popular way to travel. Private companies like Uber and Ola may have to change their rules to keep their drivers.