India, Feb. 7 -- Drivers of app-based taxis and autorickshaws across the country observed a one-day nationwide strike on Saturday to press for a ban on allegedly illegal bike taxi services and to highlight multiple long-pending grievances, including concerns over fare policies and mandatory panic button installations.

The protest was called by labour unions representing gig workers, with Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha leader Dr Keshav Kshirsagar saying the strike began in the morning across Maharashtra and several other states. He claimed that a majority of taxi and autorickshaw drivers supported the agitation and kept their vehicles off the roads.

Despite the union's claims, app-based taxi and auto services continued to remain available on p...