KTR Slams Congress Over Arrests Of Auto Drivers

BRS working president K T Rama Rao today condemned the alleged illegal detention of several auto drivers and union leaders across the State, and described the Congress government's action as outrageous and suppressive.

He criticised the State government for detaining auto drivers and union leaders in various police stations across the State without valid reasons, alleging that the move was intended to stifle dissent over the government's failure to honour its commitments.

He said that the detentions began on January 2 following a call by the Telangana Auto Rickshaw Drivers' Joint Action Committee (JAC) to lay siege to the State Assembly on January 3, and that the protest was aimed at demanding the immediate fulfillment of electoral promises made by the Congress to auto drivers.

KTR said that during its election campaign the Congress had assured full support to auto drivers. He alleged that the government had however resorted to repression and arrests when faced with demands for accountability.

He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detained union leaders and auto drivers, and urged the government to make a clear statement in the Assembly on the implementation of the promised benefits sought by the auto drivers.