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The Federal Ombudsperson has directed Yango Pakistan and InDrive Pakistan to provide proof of compliance with the Workplace Harassment Act 2010 after multiple sexual harassment complaints were filed against their drivers, highlighting urgent passenger safety concerns.
The Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) took action after a man filed a complaint stating his wife was harassed by a Yango Pakistan driver. The allegations included sexual advances, verbal harassment, inappropriate conduct, and diversions from designated routes during a booked ride.
Other complainants reported similar incidents involving unwanted sexual behavior, verbal harassment, and safety violations. These complaints prompted FOSPAH to scrutinize ride-hailing companies’ internal safety and harassment protocols.
Ombudsperson’s Directives
FOSPAH issued separate notices to Yango and InDrive asking for:
- Evidence of a legally mandated Inquiry Committee (Section 3 of the Act)
- Proof of display and dissemination of the official Code of Conduct (Section 11)
- Internal protocols for addressing harassment complaints
- Details of passenger-safety systems, including driver vetting, route monitoring, and staff training
- Complete records of harassment complaints over the past three years
A FOSPAH spokesperson stated:
“Ride-hailing companies carry an elevated responsibility to ensure safe, dignified, and respectful travel environments, particularly for women who rely on these services daily.”
Company Responses
Yango confirmed a zero tolerance policy, highlighting 24/7 customer care, driver verification, selfie checks, and permanent bans for guilty drivers. Passengers are guided on pursuing legal action as needed.
InDrive shared similar safety measures, including account suspension during investigations, GPS tracking of rides, automatic detection of unusual diversions, live trip sharing with up to five contacts, and emergency support available 24/7.
Both companies emphasized their commitment to passenger safety and compliance with legal requirements.
