Bhubaneswar Drivers' Protest Turns Violent: 113 Arrested, 354 Vehicles Seized!
Bhubaneswar Drivers' Protest Turns Violent: 113 Arrested, 354 Vehicles Seized!
App-based cab & auto drivers' protest in Bhubaneswar escalates to violence! Police arrest 113, seize 354 vehicles, and warn of strict action. Get the full story.
App-based cab and auto-rickshaw drivers, along with motorcycle riders, in Bhubaneswar found themselves clashing with authorities during a protest that turned violent, leading to significant arrests and vehicle seizures. Police officials confirmed on Thursday that 113 individuals have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in the disturbances, while 60 others were temporarily detained and subsequently released on the condition of good behavior.
The police force has also taken stern action by seizing 354 vehicles, citing violations of norms. So far, seven First Information Reports (FIRs) have been lodged against the protesters at the Kharvel Nagar police station in connection with the unrest. Authorities have issued a clear warning, stating that anyone who takes the law into their own hands will face strict legal consequences.
The protest, which began as a cease-work on August 17, was organized by drivers and riders registered with various online ride-hailing platforms. Their primary demand revolves around a seven-point charter, which includes calls for a fare hike, a reduction in application fees, and better social security and other benefits.
The situation escalated on Wednesday when hundreds of auto-rickshaws and taxis participated in a rally, starting from Raj Mahal Square. The demonstration saw vehicles being parked along Mahatma Gandhi Marg, causing significant traffic disruptions in key areas like Master Canteen and near the railway station. When police personnel attempted to persuade the agitators to clear the blocked roads, the protest allegedly turned violent, with participants reportedly pelting stones at the officers.
The confrontation resulted in the vandalization of three police vans and several buses. Furthermore, at least 13 police personnel, including the Inspector-in-Charge of the Capital police station, sustained injuries during the face-off. In response to the escalating situation, the State transport authority has initiated steps to suspend and cancel the permits of those involved.
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