Hyderabad: The Mahatma Gandhi Telangana Auto Drivers JAC has extended full support to the one-day city-wide auto bandh scheduled for January 20. The group is demanding total prohibition and resolution of long-pending issues affecting auto drivers.
Announcing the decision on Wednesday, JAC Convenor Mohd. Amanullah Khan urged auto drivers across Hyderabad and Secunderabad to participate in the bandh and make it a success. The protest call was initially given by the Auto and Light Vehicle Welfare Federation (ALWF).
Auto union blames free bus scheme, targets liquor sales
Khan alleged that the state’s free bus travel scheme for women was a major reason behind declining earnings for auto drivers. He claimed that the only viable solution was to enforce total prohibition in Telangana. Moreover, he described the situation as a “do or die” struggle.
He criticised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, calling his self-description as a “social doctor” misleading. According to Khan, the Congress-led government has instead promoted liquor sales and turned Telangana into a “Drunkards’ State.”
Citing the past two years of Congress rule, Khan said road accidents, crime, and violence against women had increased significantly. He raised the slogan “Sharab Hatao, Telangana Bachao,” demanding immediate action.
Khan termed the bandh a “Karan Batao” protest meant to hold the government accountable. He referred to what he called inaction on long-standing and legitimate concerns of the auto-driving community.