Ensure 15% drivers in ride booking apps are women: HC to Raj govt
In a groundbreaking move, the Rajasthan High Court has directed the state government to take concrete steps towards increasing the representation of women drivers on ride-booking apps. The court has mandated that at least 15% of drivers on these platforms should be women, with a target of increasing this percentage to 25% over the next 2-3 years. This decision is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and ensuring the safety of female passengers.
The Rajasthan High Court’s directive is a response to the growing concern about the safety of women using ride-booking services. There have been numerous instances of harassment, abuse, and even violence against female passengers by male drivers. By increasing the number of female drivers on these platforms, the court aims to provide women with a safer and more secure option for transportation.
The court’s order also emphasizes the need for ride-booking apps to provide female passengers with the option to choose a female driver. This feature should be available to all female passengers, allowing them to select a female driver if they prefer. This move is expected to boost the confidence of women using these services and make them feel more secure while traveling.
The decision to increase the representation of women drivers on ride-booking apps is not only a matter of safety but also a step towards promoting gender equality. Women make up a significant portion of the workforce in India, but they are underrepresented in the transportation sector. By providing opportunities for women to become drivers on ride-booking apps, the court is helping to break down barriers and challenge societal norms.
The target of having at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps be women is an ambitious one, but it is achievable. The state government and ride-booking companies will need to work together to recruit and train female drivers. This may involve providing incentives, such as training programs, flexible working hours, and safe working conditions.
The long-term goal of increasing the percentage of female drivers to 25% over the next 2-3 years is a challenging one, but it is necessary. It will require sustained efforts from the state government, ride-booking companies, and other stakeholders to create a conducive environment for women to join the transportation sector.
The Rajasthan High Court’s decision is a significant milestone in the journey towards promoting gender equality and ensuring the safety of women in India. It sets a precedent for other states to follow and highlights the need for concrete action to address the concerns of women using ride-booking services.
In conclusion, the Rajasthan High Court’s directive to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps are women is a welcome move. It is a step towards promoting gender equality, ensuring the safety of female passengers, and challenging societal norms. The state government and ride-booking companies must work together to achieve this target and create a more inclusive and secure environment for women to work and travel.
As the country moves forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of promoting gender equality and ensuring the safety of women. The Rajasthan High Court’s decision is a significant step in this direction, and it is hoped that other states will follow suit. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society where women have equal opportunities and are able to live and work without fear of harassment or violence.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
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