Bhubaneswar ride-hailing protest turns violent

Bhubaneswar witnessed violent protests by app-based cab drivers and bike riders on Wednesday. The strike, which began on August 17, saw hundreds of taxis and bikes take to the streets in a rally from Raj Mahal Square, blocking Mahatma Gandhi Marg and disrupting traffic in key areas such as Master Canteen and the railway station.

When police attempted to resolve the situation, the protesters reportedly became aggressive, throwing stones at the police and damaging government-run Ama buses at PMG Square. Several policemen were injured during the confrontation, and several protesters were detained and vehicles seized. Police spokesperson Jagmohan Meena stated that the protest was illegal and continued for an additional two days beyond the initial one-day permit granted by authorities.

Meena termed the protesters' demands as "illogical," emphasizing that the government has no role in regulating private companies. The situation has since returned to normal, with vehicular movement resuming, but the protest has caused significant inconvenience to the public, particularly affecting passengers and daily commuters who rely on these services.