Bengaluru Police Intervene in Uber Drivers' Protest Over Earnings
Bengaluru police intervened forcefully in a protest organized by Uber cab drivers on November 24, 2025, resulting in the arrest of eight drivers. The demonstration took place at the Uber Partner Seva Kendra located on Hosa Road, where scores of drivers had gathered to voice their grievances against the ride-hailing giant.
What Sparked the Protest?
The protest was primarily triggered by drivers' complaints about significantly low earnings and what they described as "differential treatment" between fleet operators and independent drivers. Drivers accused Uber of implementing policies that unfairly favor larger fleet owners while leaving individual driver-partners struggling to make ends meet.
Witnesses reported that a large group of drivers assembled outside the service center during business hours, demanding to speak with company representatives about their compensation structure. The situation escalated when police were called to the location to disperse the gathering.
Police Action and Arrests
According to official reports, eight Uber drivers were arrested during the police operation to break up the protest. Law enforcement authorities stated that the drivers were detained for violating public order regulations and refusing to disperse peacefully when instructed.
The police intervention came after the protest reportedly caused disruptions in the area surrounding the Uber Partner Seva Kendra. Authorities emphasized the need to maintain public order while acknowledging the drivers' right to peaceful protest within legal boundaries.
Broader Context of Driver Grievances
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between ride-hailing companies and their driver-partners in India's technology capital. Drivers have repeatedly raised concerns about:
- Decreasing per-kilometer rates and incentives
- Increasing commission rates taken by the platform
- Unfair algorithm-based distribution of rides
- Preferential treatment for certain driver categories
The November 24 protest represents the latest in a series of similar demonstrations that have occurred across major Indian cities as gig economy workers seek better working conditions and fair compensation.
Industry analysts note that the ride-hailing sector in India has been facing significant challenges, with drivers bearing the brunt of intense competition and changing business models. The incident at Hosa Road underscores the urgent need for dialogue between platform companies and their workforce to address these systemic issues.
