113 arrested for violence during cab, auto drivers’ protest in Bhubaneswar: Cops
The drivers want the government to intervene to regulate charges levied by online platforms and set up a mechanism to fix minimum and maximum fare.
On August 19, 113 individuals were arrested in connection with violent protests by app-based taxi and auto drivers in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The arrests took place following a demonstration aimed at securing higher fares, reduction of application fees, social security, and other benefits for drivers. Another 60 people were released on personal bond before being produced in a local court.
A total of 354 vehicles were seized during the unrest, which erupted near Station Square and Master Canteen after police attempted to disperse protesters blocking roads with their vehicles. Seven FIRs were filed at Kharavela Nagar police station. The drivers, who began a work stoppage on August 17, demanded fare increases, lower application fees, better job security, and other measures.
They also sought government intervention to regulate platform charges and establish minimum and maximum fare caps. The drivers wanted payment for waiting time, compensation for lost time during traffic, and full payment if passengers canceled bookings. They also demanded permanent offices for ride-hailing companies within Odisha and a regulatory framework to prevent unregulated vehicle additions by platforms.
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