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By Sabeeh Zunair :
ISLAMABAD : The Federal Ombudsperson has directed ride-hailing companies Yango Pakistan and InDrive Pakistan to present documented proof of compliance with the Workplace Harassment Act 2010, following a series of sexual harassment complaints filed against their drivers. The move underscores growing concerns about passenger safety, particularly for women using app-based transport services.
The Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) initiated the inquiry after a man reported that his wife was subjected to sexual advances, verbal harassment and inappropriate behaviour by a Yango driver. The complaint also alleged route deviations during the ride, raising additional safety issues.
According to FOSPAH, similar complaints have been lodged by other passengers, detailing incidents of unwanted sexual conduct, verbal intimidation and violations of standard safety practices. These reports prompted the Ombudsperson to examine whether ride-hailing platforms have adequate mechanisms in place to prevent and respond to harassment.
Directives Issued to Companies
FOSPAH has issued formal notices to both Yango and InDrive, instructing them to submit:
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Evidence of a legally required Inquiry Committee under Section 3 of the Act
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Proof of displaying and circulating the official Code of Conduct as mandated by Section 11
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Details of internal mechanisms for handling harassment complaints
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Documentation of passenger-safety processes, including driver screening, route monitoring and staff training
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Comprehensive records of all harassment-related complaints from the past three years
A spokesperson for FOSPAH said the oversight was necessary given the high dependency on ride-hailing services, especially among women.
Company Responses
Both companies have issued statements reaffirming their commitment to passenger safety.
Yango Pakistan said it enforces a zero-tolerance policy, supported by features such as 24/7 customer service, driver identity verification, selfie verification for account holders and permanent bans for offenders. The company added that it guides victims on how to pursue legal action when required.
InDrive Pakistan outlined similar measures, including suspension of driver accounts during investigations, continuous GPS tracking, automated alerts for unusual route changes, live ride-sharing with trusted contacts and round-the-clock emergency support.
Both platforms emphasized that they comply with local regulations and are committed to strengthening safety protocols as needed.
Growing Pressure for Stricter Oversight
The Ombudsperson’s intervention comes amid rising public scrutiny of ride-hailing safety standards. Advocacy groups have repeatedly called for stronger regulation, citing the increasing number of harassment cases reported in major cities.
FOSPAH’s findings and the companies’ submitted documentation will determine the next steps in the inquiry.
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