InDrive licence suspended for six months over violations

For context, the suspension prohibits inDrive from operating its cab and bike-taxi services during the period of the order.

Key points

• The action against inDrive follows a similar six-month suspension imposed on ANI Technologies Private Limited.
• According to the STA, the action followed repeated notices and directions issued to the firm regarding compliance with the applicable aggregator rules.
• Authorities cited a number of alleged lapses, including failure to implement mandatory driver-welfare measures, non-submission of required compliance reports and inadequate response to communications from the Transport Department.
• The transport authorities have cautioned that violations of the suspension order could result in strict enforcement action, including challans and impounding of vehicles.
• The regulator additionally flagged matters relating to prescribed fare structures and other operational requirements, along with irregularities reportedly identified during inspections.

In practice, the regulator additionally flagged matters relating to prescribed fare structures and other operational requirements, along with irregularities reportedly identified during inspections.

Under the order, drivers and vehicle owners associated with the inDrive platform have been directed to immediately cease operations under the firm in Chandigarh and not accept bookings through the application during the suspension period.

For context, the transport authorities have cautioned that violations of the suspension order could result in strict enforcement action, including challans and impounding of vehicles.

Notably, the STA has additionally advised commuters not to book rides through the inDrive application during the suspension period and to apply other aggregator platforms authorised by the Chandigarh Transport Department.

Meanwhile, the action against inDrive follows a similar six-month suspension imposed on ANI Technologies Private Limited. It operates Ola, over alleged non-compliance with the city's aggregator regulations.

Notably, the Chandigarh Administration's action comes as Indian authorities continue to tighten regulatory oversight of app-based mobility platforms, particularly in areas including driver welfare, licensing, fares, safety, reporting and operational compliance.

In short, inDrive licence suspended for six months over violations is the central thread here, and readers can expect follow-up reporting as the picture becomes clearer.