‘We’re dedicated to building a platform where women feel safe. That’s why we partner with and learn from women who use our app, women’s safety experts, and advocates to build innovative safety features and policies that empower our community of users, assures a popular taxi-hailing service platform. But is this really true?
The expansion of taxi-hailing services has revolutionized transportation in India, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to navigate the country’s bustling cities. All you need is mobile and internet connectivity to reach your destination. However, while these services have offered relief from the chaotic and unreliable traditional taxi systems, a troubling question lingers: Are these services really safe for the womenfolk?
Convenience vs Safety
For many women, these services have become an essential part of their daily commute, especially in urban areas where public transportation can be overcrowded and unreliable. Public transport for women in the country was not something looked up to just before until the incident in the country’s capital in December 2012. The ability to book a ride with a few taps on a smartphone, track the driver’s arrival in real time, and share trip details with friends or family has added layers of convenience and security that were previously unavailable.
Despite technological advancements, women who avail services from such online applications often find themselves in disturbing situations involving drivers.
Numerous reports and personal accounts have surfaced, highlighting instances of sexual harassment and abuse by drivers. These incidents have sparked widespread concern about the safety protocols and accountability mechanisms employed by these companies.
The Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways embraced policy proposals provided in 2017 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The central locking system in taxis was to be disengaged, GPS panic devices were to be installed, and the driver’s identity had to be shown more conspicuously, according to the New Taxi Policy Guidelines. In addition to a 24/7 helpline number to support travellers who face a risk to their safety, emergency buttons have been added to applications that allow users to report problems to safety response teams.
What the victims have to say
One of the most harrowing aspects of this issue is the personal stories of women who have faced abuse during their rides. One of the Malayali victims staying in Bangalore said, ‘I was going out with my friends at around 7.30 pm and I booked an online auto. I knew Kannada very well while staying in Bangalore. While on the ride, the driver got a call from someone and they started talking about the outfit I was wearing, stating that it was too revealing. He said that I looked like I came from a good family, but still went out at night wearing such a dress. I got angry and shouted at him, saying that I understood Kannada well. He just laughed and asked me why I was getting tense and that in his village people would have groped me. It might have been silly for him, but I felt too disgusted. I asked him to stop the vehicle and got off after paying him. It was a scary experience for me and I have serious trauma from booking such services. Now I just ride my own vehicle. Even though a complaint was registered, no updates were given to the victim.
Another victim says, ‘I was riding in a taxi from a popular service provider at eight in the morning, and I closed my eyes to get some rest for five minutes. I was wearing a frock that day, and we stopped at a signal. When I opened my eyes slightly, I saw to my horror that the driver had placed his phone in between my legs. I don’t know if he got the picture despite assurances and safety features, the misfortune continues.’
‘I hailed an online cab from my residence in Kochi to one of the malls along with my friends. When the cab arrived, I took a seat in the front. The driver was an old man. From the moment I entered the cab, the driver was staring at me. Once the ride began, I noticed he was restless and he was enjoying himself occasionally while looking at me. I felt disgusted at his actions. I registered a complaint with the service soon after I was dropped off. The company told me that I would be given an update within 48 hours,’ says another victim from Kochi (Kerala). The company finally contacted the victim and said that the driver had been barred. But no proof regarding this was given except for a written document that states his account has been cancelled.
Self-declared safety protocols from companies
Taxi-hailing companies have emphasized their commitment to passenger safety. According to Uber, ‘We all value our personal space and privacy. Sexual assault and sexual misconduct of any kind is prohibited. Sexual assault and misconduct refer to sexual contact or behaviour without explicit consent of the other person. Personal space and privacy should be respected. Uber has a no-sex rule regardless of whether you know the person or they give you their consent.’
A zero-tolerance policy has been implemented towards harassment and abuse by the various taxi-hailing services, but most of them are just confined to papers. This doesn’t mean that all the service providers are faulty. But there exist a few rotten incidents that are sure to tarnish the name of the entire service. Safety protocols must include rigorous driver screening processes, real-time ride tracking, and a 24/7 safety response team.
The Reality of Safety Measures
Despite these assurances, the efficacy of these measures is often questioned. Background checks and safety training, while essential, do not always prevent misconduct. Many victims argue that the response from the companies is often inadequate or delayed, leaving them feeling vulnerable and unsupported.
Cultural and Systemic Challenges
The issue of safety for women in taxi-hailing services cannot be viewed in isolation. It is deeply intertwined with broader cultural and systemic challenges that women face in India. The patriarchal mindset, victim-blaming attitudes, and lack of stringent legal enforcement contribute to a climate where women often feel unsafe, not just in cabs, but in many public and private spaces.
Abhilash M R an advocate with the Supreme Court of India explains, ‘If such an incident happens, the victim can file a complaint with the consumer court as well as register a complaint with the police mentioning the parties involved in the incident. All the cases of this sort are considered with utmost importance after the Nirbhaya incident.’
Moving Forward: What Can Be Done?
To enhance the safety of women using taxi-hailing services, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Companies must go beyond basic safety features and implement robust incident response mechanisms that prioritize the victim’s well-being and ensure accountability. Regular audits and updates to safety protocols should be conducted, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies must be strengthened.
Moreover, there is a need for greater public awareness and education on gender sensitivity and respectful behaviour. Empowering women with knowledge and tools to protect themselves, such as self-defence training and awareness of legal rights, can also play a crucial role.
While taxi-hailing services have undoubtedly transformed urban transportation in India, the safety of women riders remains a significant concern. The convenience offered by these services is often overshadowed by the fear and reality of harassment and abuse. Companies, authorities, and society at large must take proactive steps to ensure that women can travel without fear. Only through a collective effort can we create an environment where every journey is safe and free from abuse.
