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March 23- 2026

CABS SHOULD ACCOMMODATE WHEELCHAIRS: SUPREME COURT PUSHES FOR INCLUSIVE MOBILITY

Introduction

In a significant step towards strengthening the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs), the Supreme Court of India recently emphasized the urgent need for making cab services accessible and inclusive. The observation came while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in SHIVJEET SINGH RAGHAW V. UNION OF INDIA & ANR., which raises critical concerns about mobility barriers faced by PwDs in India.

The Court’s remarks highlight a crucial but often overlooked issue first and last mile connectivity and underscore the importance of inclusive transport systems in ensuring dignity and independence for persons with disabilities.

Background of the Case

The PIL filed by Shivjeet Singh Raghaw focuses on the lack of accessibility in urban transport infrastructure, particularly affecting persons with disabilities who rely on assistive devices such as wheelchairs.

The petition argues that while India has enacted progressive legislation like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, implementation remains weak. Despite legal mandates, transportation systems especially app-based and private cab services—continue to remain largely inaccessible.

Key Issue: First and Last Mile Connectivity

A central concern raised in the PIL is the concept of “first and last mile access.”

This refers to:

  • The journey from a person’s home to the nearest public transport point, and
  • The return journey back home

For PwDs, this segment often becomes the most challenging part of travel.

The Court acknowledged that even if public transport (like buses or metros) is accessible, the inability to reach these systems independently defeats the purpose of accessibility laws.

Supreme Court’s Observations

A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta made several crucial observations:

  1. Practical Challenges Faced by PwDs

The Court raised a thought-provoking question:

“If a wheelchair user reaches the main road using an automated wheelchair, where will they leave it if the cab cannot accommodate it?”

This observation reflects the real-life barriers that PwDs face daily issues that go beyond theoretical policy frameworks.

  1. Need for Wheelchair-Compatible Cabs

Recognizing the growing reliance on cab services, particularly in metropolitan cities, the Court stressed that:

  • Cabs should be equipped to carry wheelchairs and assistive devices
  • Accessibility should not be optional but standardized
  1. Suggestion for Modified and Specialized Vehicles

The bench suggested:

  • Introduction of specially designed or modified cabs
  • Use of external carriers or storage solutions to accommodate wheelchairs
  • Designing vehicles that overcome constraints posed by CNG cylinders, which often occupy boot space
  1. Recognition of Cabs as Public Transport

An important argument raised by the petitioner and acknowledged by the Court is that:

“Cabs today function as an integral part of public transport systems”

This classification has major implications, as it could bring cab aggregators and operators under stricter accessibility obligations.

Arguments by the Petitioner

The petitioner’s counsel highlighted several systemic issues:

  • Existing accessibility rules are not being implemented effectively
  • PwDs face discrimination while boarding cabs
  • CNG installations in vehicles reduce storage space, making it difficult to carry wheelchairs
  • There is a need for a universal design framework for all cabs

Government’s Response

The respondents informed the Court that the matter is under consideration by a Committee constituted in the Rajive Raturi case.

However, the Court expressed dissatisfaction due to lack of clarity regarding:

  • The composition of the Committee
  • The progress made so far

As a result, the Court sought further details and adjourned the matter.

Legal and Policy Context

  1. Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

This legislation mandates:

  • Non-discrimination in access to transport
  • Barrier-free infrastructure
  • Equal participation in society
  1. Constitutional Backing

The issue also touches upon:

  • Article 14 – Equality before law
  • Article 21 – Right to life with dignity

Accessible transport is increasingly being recognized as a fundamental right linked to dignity and independence.

Broader Implications of the Case

This case has far-reaching implications:

  1. Standardization of Accessible Transport

If directions are issued, it could lead to:

  • Nationwide standards for wheelchair-friendly cabs
  • Mandatory compliance for cab aggregators
  1. Impact on Cab Aggregators

Platforms like Ola, Uber, and others may need to:

  • Introduce accessible fleets
  • Modify existing vehicles
  • Train drivers for assisting PwDs
  1. Urban Mobility Reform

The case may trigger:

  • Integration of accessibility into urban planning
  • Stronger enforcement of disability rights laws

Way Forward

The Supreme Court’s approach indicates that future directions may include:

  • Policy guidelines for accessible cab design
  • Mandatory inclusion of wheelchair-compatible vehicles
  • Incentives or subsidies for operators adopting accessible infrastructure
  • Monitoring mechanisms for implementation

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s observations in Shivjeet Singh Raghaw v. Union of India bring much-needed attention to a critical gap in India’s accessibility framework. By focusing on practical challenges faced by persons with disabilities, the Court has moved the conversation from policy to real-world impact.

Ensuring that cabs accommodate wheelchairs is not merely a matter of convenience it is about dignity, equality, and the right to independent mobility.

As the case progresses, it has the potential to redefine inclusive transportation in India and set a precedent for accessibility standards across sectors.