The increasing reliance on app-based cab services has brought women’s safety into sharp focus, with concerns about accountability in cases of harassment or assault. As more women use cab-hailing platforms for their daily commutes, the need for effective safety protocols and transparent accountability mechanisms has become critical.
Background:
App-based cab services have transformed urban transportation, offering convenience and accessibility at the tap of a screen. However, reports of safety incidents, including harassment, have surfaced, highlighting significant gaps in passenger protection. Despite safety features embedded in these apps, such as SOS buttons and driver verification protocols, incidents continue to occur. The absence of a clear regulatory framework and the often opaque policies of these platforms complicate efforts to ensure accountability when incidents arise.
Safety Protocol Concerns:
While companies promote safety features, they do not always translate into effective protection. Background checks on drivers may be inadequate or inconsistent, and emergency features may be difficult to use in high-stress situations. Furthermore, reporting mechanisms on these platforms often lack transparency, leaving victims without clear avenues for redress. The lack of stringent legal standards for cab aggregators leaves significant room for laxity in driver oversight and victim support.
Existing Measures:
India has introduced certain measures aimed at enhancing cab safety, including the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, which mandates GPS tracking and panic buttons in commercial vehicles. Some state governments have also introduced guidelines for ride-hailing apps, focusing on driver screening and compliance with safety standards. Nevertheless, these regulations are often under-enforced, and the fragmented approach across states creates inconsistencies in passenger protection.
Conclusion:
The accountability of app-based cab services in women’s safety remains elusive, reflecting gaps in both corporate practices and regulatory oversight. Strengthening background checks, streamlining emergency response mechanisms, and enforcing uniform standards for these platforms are necessary steps to enhance women’s safety. A more rigorous approach to oversight and transparency could ensure that app-based cab services are a safer option for women, making accountability a priority rather than an afterthought.