The Delhi High Court has issued notice to the Delhi government and police on a PIL alleging widespread refusal by auto rickshaw drivers to follow meter-based fares. The Court has sought details on enforcement actions, challans issued, and passenger grievance mechanisms.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice to the Delhi government and the Delhi Police on a public interest litigation seeking strict enforcement of government-approved auto rickshaw fares and mandatory use of meters in the national capital.
The case was heard by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela. The Bench directed the Delhi government to file its detailed reply within four weeks.
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The Court specifically asked the authorities to provide data on how many challans have been issued against auto rickshaw drivers for refusing to charge fares as per the meter. The Bench also sought clarity on whether there is any effective system in place to monitor drivers who charge arbitrary and inflated fares.
In addition, the Court questioned the government and police on whether any proper grievance redressal mechanism exists for passengers. The Bench wanted to know how commuters can complain against auto drivers who refuse rides when passengers insist on travelling by meter.
These directions were passed while hearing a PIL filed by advocate Anil Nimesh. The petition highlights the widespread violation of fare rules by auto rickshaw drivers in Delhi and alleges that the authorities have failed to properly enforce existing regulations.
The petitioner sought directions for strict implementation of the auto rickshaw fare structure notified by the Delhi government in January 2023. As per the notification, the base fare is Rs 30 for the first 1.5 kilometres, followed by Rs 11 per kilometre thereafter. The notification also prescribes regulated night charges and waiting charges.
According to the petitioner, after the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, auto rickshaw drivers across Delhi have increasingly refused to run by meters. Instead, drivers allegedly demand fixed and arbitrary fares from passengers, causing inconvenience and financial burden to daily commuters.
The plea further raised concerns about the impact of app-based transport platforms such as Uber and Rapido. It was alleged that higher fares charged on these platforms have encouraged even non-app auto drivers to demand inflated prices from passengers.
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The petitioner argued that due to weak enforcement, drivers feel free to ignore meter rules without fear of penalty. He therefore urged the Court to issue directions to the authorities to strictly enforce fare regulations, regularly inspect meters, issue public notices warning drivers of penalties, and take strict action against repeat offenders.
The matter is now pending before the Delhi High Court, and the response of the Delhi government and Delhi Police is awaited.
Case Title:
Anil Nimesh v Govt of NCT of Delhi & Other
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