Hyderabad: The Auto JAC on Sunday called on the Telangana government to announce the formation of an Auto Rickshaw Drivers Welfare Board during the upcoming Assembly session. Leaders warned that if the government fails to meet this demand, they will intensify their protest campaign.
At a press conference in Hyderabad, Auto JAC leaders accused the Congress government of worsening the livelihood crisis for auto drivers. They blamed the issuance of over 45,000 permits in the city for encouraging corruption. They claimed broker-run rackets have sidelined eligible drivers.
Auto drivers face rising debt and distress
Auto JAC State President Manda Ravikumar, Vice President SK Dastagiri, and General Secretary Bugudala Sailu slammed the government for its inaction. They said two years had passed since officials promised livelihood support. Yet, not a single step had been taken to fulfill it.
They also criticised the introduction of free RTC bus travel for women. They claimed it drastically cut into the earnings of auto drivers. Many now struggle with mounting debt. According to the union, over 100 drivers have died by suicide due to financial stress. They held the Congress government responsible.
The leaders demanded an immediate correction in the permit system, calling for eligibility-based issuance. They warned that if the government fails to act, auto drivers will besiege RTO offices across the city.
The Auto JAC reiterated its core demands — a welfare board for auto drivers and the promised ₹12,000 support. They insisted that these must be addressed without delay in the current Assembly session.