One-Day Auto Rickshaw Strike On August 16

The Telangana Auto Drivers' Joint Action Committee (TADJAC) has issued a call for a one-day bandh on August 16 to protest against the KCR government's "criminal negligence" of the drivers' issues.

In a statement released today, TADJAC convener Mohammed Amanullah Khan claimed that the government had not increased the existing auto fares in the last seven-and-a-half years. The rates, he said, had last been reviewed on February 14, 2014.

Khan demanded that there be an immediate increase in auto fares to match the rates charged in other neighbouring states.

He also flayed Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, and said, "Our CM, on the one hand, claims that his government works for the welfare for every section of society. On the other hand, however, when it comes to taking to steps to protect the interests of auto drivers, there is a sort of step-motherly apathy that we have to contend with."

Outlining the other demands of the auto drivers, Khan stated, "We want an immediate reduction in petrol, diesel and CNG rates. Also, like the Jagan regime, our CM too should provide aid of Rs 10,000 to every auto owner on a yearly basis. Further, he should reduce the pending e-challan amount by 50%, and instead of issuing e-challans, he should restart the spot challan system. Besides this, officials should be told to take strong steps to stop the black-marketing of autos that is rampant in Hyderabad. Finally, we demand that the government issue the necessary guidelines to stop private auto financiers' ever-rising zulum and harassment."