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 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 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 feel vulnerable 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 a substantial presence of women drivers on ride-booking apps, the government can help create a safer and more inclusive environment for female passengers. The option to choose a female driver will not only provide women with a sense of security but also encourage more women to use these services, thereby promoting their independence and mobility.
The Rajasthan High Court’s judgment is a response to the growing concerns about the safety of women passengers on ride-booking apps. There have been several instances of harassment, molestation, and even assault of female passengers by male drivers. The lack of representation of women drivers on these platforms has been identified as a major contributing factor to these incidents. By increasing the number of women drivers, the government can help mitigate these risks and provide a more secure experience for female passengers.
The court has also emphasized the need for ride-booking apps to provide an option for female passengers to choose a female driver first. This feature will enable women to exercise their preference for a female driver, thereby enhancing their sense of security and comfort. The option to choose a female driver will also help to promote the employment of women drivers, as it will create a demand for their services.
The Rajasthan government has been directed to work with ride-booking apps to implement these changes. The government will need to collaborate with these companies to recruit and train more women drivers, as well as to modify their apps to include the option for female passengers to choose a female driver. The government will also need to monitor the progress of these initiatives and take corrective action if the targets are not met.
The judgment of the Rajasthan High Court has significant implications for the transportation sector in India. It highlights the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach to the provision of transportation services. By promoting the employment of women drivers and providing options for female passengers to choose a female driver, the government can help create a more secure and comfortable experience for women.
The move is also expected to have a positive impact on the economy, as it will create new job opportunities for women and promote their participation in the workforce. The transportation sector is a significant contributor to India’s economy, and the inclusion of more women in this sector can help to boost economic growth and development.
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 women’s empowerment in the transportation sector. The move is aimed at enhancing the safety and security of female passengers, as well as promoting the employment of women drivers. The government and ride-booking apps must work together to implement these changes and create a more inclusive and equitable transportation system.
The judgment is a welcome move, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of women in Rajasthan and beyond. As the government and ride-booking apps work to implement these changes, it is essential to monitor their progress and ensure that the targets are met. The inclusion of more women drivers on ride-booking apps is a crucial step towards creating a more secure and comfortable experience for female passengers, and it is essential that this initiative is successful.
The Rajasthan High Court’s judgment is a testament to the power of the judiciary in promoting social change and protecting the rights of citizens. The court’s directive is a reminder that the government and private companies have a responsibility to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. As we move forward, it is essential to build on this momentum and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
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