New Delhi, June 20 -- Karnataka's ban on bike taxis has revived the debate on their legality and safety. With Indian states taking varied stances, more bans could upend low-cost urban mobility and disrupt gig economy jobs, raising fresh questions about the industry's future. Mint explains:

Karnataka's decision stems from legal and regulatory concerns around the use of white-board (privately registered) two-wheelers for commercial purposes, which the state sees as a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. Officials cite safety risks, lack of commercial insurance, and mounting pressure from auto and cab unions as key factors. A High Court ruling had earlier deemed unlicensed bike taxi operations illegal, further strengthening the state's stan...