Ensure 15% drivers in ride booking apps are women: HC to Raj govt
In a landmark judgment, the Rajasthan High Court has directed the state government to take concrete steps to increase the number of female drivers on ride-booking apps. The court has mandated that at least 15% of drivers on these platforms should be women, with a target to increase this percentage to 25% over the next 2-3 years. This move is aimed at enhancing the safety and security of female passengers, who often face harassment and intimidation while using these services.
The court’s directive is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in the transportation sector. By ensuring that a substantial percentage of drivers on ride-booking apps are women, the government can help create a more secure and comfortable environment for female passengers. This, in turn, can encourage more women to use these services, which can have a positive impact on their mobility, independence, and overall well-being.
The court’s order also stipulates that female passengers must have the option to choose a female driver first. This feature should be integrated into the app, allowing women to select a female driver if they prefer. This provision is essential, as it gives female passengers a sense of control and agency over their travel experience. By choosing a female driver, women can feel more at ease, especially during late-night or solo journeys.
The Rajasthan High Court’s judgment is a response to the growing concerns about the safety of female passengers on ride-booking apps. There have been numerous instances of women facing harassment, molestation, and even assault by male drivers. These incidents have highlighted the need for greater scrutiny and regulation of these services, particularly with regard to the recruitment and training of drivers.
The court’s directive to increase the percentage of female drivers on ride-booking apps is a positive step towards addressing these concerns. By having more women behind the wheel, the government can help reduce the risk of harassment and intimidation faced by female passengers. This, in turn, can increase trust and confidence in these services, which can lead to greater adoption and usage.
However, implementing the court’s directive will require significant efforts from the state government and ride-booking companies. They will need to work together to recruit, train, and retain more female drivers. This may involve providing incentives, such as training programs, flexible working hours, and safe working conditions, to attract and retain women in this profession.
Moreover, the government and ride-booking companies will need to ensure that female drivers are treated with dignity and respect. This includes providing them with a safe and secure working environment, free from harassment and intimidation. They will also need to establish robust grievance redressal mechanisms to address any complaints or concerns raised by female drivers.
The Rajasthan High Court’s judgment is a significant milestone in the journey towards creating a more inclusive and secure transportation system. By promoting the participation of women in the ride-booking sector, the government can help address the pressing issues of safety, security, and gender equality. As the state government and ride-booking companies work to implement the court’s directive, they must prioritize the needs and concerns of female passengers and drivers.
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. By increasing the participation of women in this sector, the government can help create a more secure and comfortable environment for female passengers. As we move forward, it is essential to prioritize the needs and concerns of women, both as passengers and drivers, to create a more inclusive and equitable transportation system.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
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