Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha threatens statewide strike over proposed bike taxi services

On July 7, 2026, the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha announced a threat of a statewide chakka jam and strike in Mumbai and across Maharashtra. The union is protesting against the state government's proposed decision to permit bike taxi services. The union warned that the move would jeopardize the livelihoods of lakhs of auto-rickshaw, taxi, and cab drivers operating throughout the state.

The opposition from the union intensified following a statement made by the state Transport Minister in the Legislative Assembly. The minister had discussed granting permission for bike taxi services in Maharashtra, which sparked immediate backlash from local transport unions.

Dr. Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, the president of the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, strongly condemned the Transport Minister's announcement. Speaking about the issue, Dr. Kshirsagar stated that the union firmly opposes any move to allow bike taxis to operate in the state.

The union has urged the Maharashtra state government to withdraw the proposal entirely. Representatives stated that the introduction of bike taxis would directly impact lakhs of existing auto-rickshaw, taxi, and cab drivers who rely on traditional transport services for their daily living.

If the state government goes ahead with its decision to permit bike taxi services, the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha has threatened to execute a statewide chakka jam, or road blockade, alongside a complete strike. This action could result in widespread transportation disruptions across various cities and towns in Maharashtra.

The conflict centers around the livelihoods of lakhs of auto-rickshaw, taxi, and cab drivers. The Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha represents these workers and argues that bike taxi services would severely affect their earnings. The union has called on the state government to reconsider the statement made in the Legislative Assembly and withdraw the proposal immediately to prevent a statewide disruption.