Taxi Union Protests Allegations by Auto Drivers, Submits Memorandum to Police in Bhatkal
Taxi association denies harassment claims, says autos operating beyond limits are hurting livelihoods.
Bhatkal: Expressing strong resentment over allegations made by the Auto Rickshaw Drivers and Owners Association, the Bhatkal Taxi Drivers and Owners Association staged a protest outside the Town Police Station and submitted a memorandum to the Police Inspector, addressed to the Bhatkal DySP. The union described the accusations against taxi drivers as baseless and misleading.
Leaders of the taxi association alleged that some auto rickshaw drivers in the town were operating beyond their legally permitted travel limits, in violation of transport rules. They said auto rickshaws are authorised to operate within a seven-kilometre radius, but certain drivers had reportedly carried passengers to far-off destinations, including Byndoor. According to the union, they had only asked the concerned drivers for clarification and requested them to wait for official directions from the district administration.
In the memorandum, the taxi union warned that unrestricted long-distance operations by auto rickshaws would seriously impact taxi drivers, many of whom are repaying large vehicle loans. The association maintained that it had only raised this issue as a livelihood concern and had neither harassed anyone nor forcibly collected money from any driver.
The union further claimed that false complaints were being filed against taxi drivers in an attempt to cover up alleged irregular practices by a section of auto drivers.
Police Inspector Divakar received the memorandum and assured the delegation that the matter would be examined and action taken after a proper inquiry.
Taxi Drivers and Owners Association President Ganesh Devadiga, Secretary Jagadish Naik, Naveen Naik Kumta, Ramesh Kotian, Faisal Peezade and several other members were present during the submission of the memorandum.
