Online taxi drivers in Thiruvananthapuram continue to face attacks and intimidation from local drivers, despite having legal permits to operate. Incidents have been reported mainly in Kovalam, Varkala, and near the Thiruvananthapuram airport, where a group of local drivers block and assault online taxi drivers.

In a recent incident at a five-star hotel in Kovalam, an online taxi driver was brutally beaten by local taxi workers. Similar attacks have occurred in Varkala and other parts of Kerala. The state government is urged to intervene, as these actions challenge the rule of law and the rights of citizens to choose their preferred mode of transport.

Online taxi services like Uber and Ola are popular among tourists and locals for their transparency and convenience. However, at Thiruvananthapuram airport, online taxis are not allowed inside, forcing passengers to walk out with luggage to board their booked cabs. This has led to confrontations with local drivers who exploit the situation.

Meanwhile, the central government-backed Bharat Taxi, a cooperative model with no commission or surge pricing, is set to expand nationwide. It is currently available in Delhi and Gujarat. The authorities must take strict action against the goons attacking online taxi drivers to ensure safety and fair competition.