Ensure 15% drivers in ride booking apps are women: HC to Raj govt
The Rajasthan High Court has recently issued a directive to the state government, emphasizing the need for greater representation of women drivers on ride-booking apps. In a significant move, the court has instructed the government to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on these platforms are women. Furthermore, the court has set a target for this percentage to be increased to 25% over the next 2-3 years. This ruling is a crucial step towards promoting gender equality and providing a safer environment for female passengers.
The court’s decision is a response to the growing concerns about the safety of women using ride-booking services. With the increasing number of women traveling alone, often late at night or in unfamiliar areas, the need for a secure and reliable transportation system has become more pressing. By mandating that a significant percentage of drivers on these apps be women, the court aims to alleviate some of the concerns and fears that women passengers may have.
One of the key aspects of the court’s directive is the requirement for ride-booking apps to provide an option for female passengers to choose a female driver first. This feature will enable women to feel more comfortable and secure while using these services, knowing that they have the option to request a female driver. This is particularly important in cases where women may be traveling alone or in areas that are unfamiliar to them.
The court’s ruling is also expected to have a positive impact on the employment opportunities for women in the state. By setting a target for the percentage of female drivers on ride-booking apps, the government will be incentivized to provide training and support to women who are interested in pursuing a career as a driver. This could lead to an increase in the number of women in the workforce, contributing to the state’s economic growth and development.
In addition to the economic benefits, the court’s directive is also likely to have a positive impact on the social dynamics of the state. By promoting the representation of women in a traditionally male-dominated field, the court is helping to break down social barriers and challenge stereotypes. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society, where women have equal opportunities to pursue their goals and aspirations.
The Rajasthan government has been instructed to submit a report to the court within the next six months, outlining the steps it has taken to implement the directive. The government will be required to provide details on the number of female drivers who have been recruited, the training programs that have been put in place, and the measures that have been taken to ensure the safety and security of female passengers.
The court’s ruling has been welcomed by women’s rights organizations and advocacy groups, who have long been campaigning for greater representation of women in the transportation sector. These organizations have argued that the presence of female drivers on ride-booking apps is essential for providing a safe and secure environment for women passengers.
In conclusion, the Rajasthan High Court’s directive to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps are women is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and providing a safer environment for female passengers. The court’s ruling is expected to have a positive impact on the employment opportunities for women, the social dynamics of the state, and the overall safety and security of women using ride-booking services. As the government works to implement this directive, it is essential that it prioritizes the needs and concerns of women passengers, ensuring that they have access to a reliable and secure transportation system.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
About the Author
