Gurugram App Based Cab Drivers on Strike: From KYC To Safety Measure; What are the Demands?

Gurugram: In Gurugram, a group of app-based cab drivers have announced a strike on Monday, and also demanded to introduce mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for passengers and enhanced safety, citing growing concerns over driver safety.

The main concern of the driver is about the lack of passenger verification, which  is growing safety concern. 

What did the drivers say?

On Saturday, cab drivers assembled outside Sector 46 of Gurugram, and shared  multiple incidents of assaults, intimidation, and threats that they have faced.

The drivers said that lack of verification has led to instances where criminals use fake identities to book rides and target drivers. 

What triggered the protest?

The main reason which triggered protest is the January 2026 murder of a 25-year-old driver, Suraj Singh, who was allegedly strangled by passengers in Gurugram's Sector 37C during a robbery attempt.

The protest is led by driver unions and supported by large sections of the gig workforce.

What is the impact of strike?

The strike has led to widespread disruption of services operated by Uber and Ola across Gurugram.

The protest has impacted commuters across key residential and commercial hubs. 

Many people in theses areas reported longer wait times, with ride bookings now taking 10 to 15 minutes on average, compared to the typical 1-2 minutes. 

The users said that the cab availability has also dropped sharply, with frequent cancellations being reported

What are the reasons for the protest?

The main concern of the drivers is that  passengers should be verified using Aadhaar or other valid ID to curb assaults and threats. 

The cab drivers also said that the lack of mandatory KYC for riders enables individuals using fake profiles or unverified phone numbers to access services without accountability. 

Many cab drivers have also raised concerns over rising cases of verbal abuse, non-payment, threats, and, in some cases, physical assaults during rides.

The drivers also said that existing app safety features, such as SOS buttons, doesn't provide timely assistance during emergencies.