When Technology Threatens the Old Guard: Should Innovation Be Legislated Away?

Rapido has recently discontinued its two-wheeler ride services in Bangalore, leading to significant disruption for daily commuters who relied on the platform for affordable and quick transportation. The move has sparked considerable backlash from users across the city, with many taking to social media to express frustration and demand clarity from the company and government. When the fax machine emerged in the 1980s, it posed a real threat to overnight delivery services like FedEx. But instead of lobbying to ban or regulate it, FedEx adapted and thrived. This is the natural path of innovationānew tools disrupt old models, and businesses evolve accordingly. šUnfortunately, not all industries have embraced this mindset. In response to the internet and digital access, several traditional players in entertainment and publishing pushed for laws that criminalized sharing and restricted technological advancement. Rather than innovate, they sought protection through regulation. Contrast this ...