Mumbai Cab Drivers Launch Indefinite Hunger Strike Demanding Regulatory Action
An app-based cab drivers union has announced a hunger strike unto death starting Monday at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, with simultaneous protests across Maharashtra. The drivers are demanding strict enforcement against illegal bike taxis and the implementation of government-approved fares on aggregator platforms.
Drivers Allege Persistent Rule Violations by Aggregator Companies
Union leaders claim that despite repeated statements and directives from the transport department, companies such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido continue to violate rules with impunity. The drivers allege that these aggregator platforms operate illegal bike taxi services and fail to adhere to state-mandated fare structures, creating unfair competition and financial hardship for licensed cab operators.
Keshav Kshirsagar, the union leader, stated that authorities have failed to act effectively even after multiple protests. "The government machinery appears powerless before these multinational aggregators," Kshirsagar said, describing the situation as alarming for the livelihood of thousands of drivers.
Statewide Protests Under "Give Justice to the Transport Minister" Banner
The hunger strike at Azad Maidan is part of a broader protest movement under the banner "Give Justice to the Transport Minister." Simultaneous demonstrations will begin at the District Collector's Office in Pune and Samvidhan Chowk in Nagpur, continuing until their demands are met.
Drivers have expressed frustration with what they perceive as inadequate regulatory oversight. They argue that the continued operation of illegal bike taxis and unapproved fare models undermines the legal framework established to protect both drivers and passengers.
Aggregator Companies Deny Allegations
In response to the union's claims, the aggregator cab firms have denied any wrongdoing. Representatives from Ola, Uber, and Rapido maintain that they comply with all applicable regulations and work collaboratively with transport authorities to ensure lawful operations.
However, the drivers' union insists that concrete action is needed, including:
- Immediate crackdown on illegal bike taxi services
- Strict enforcement of government-approved fare structures on all aggregator platforms
- Transparent monitoring and penalties for regulatory violations
The indefinite hunger strike represents an escalation in the ongoing conflict between traditional cab drivers and technology-driven ride-hailing services, highlighting broader tensions in India's evolving transportation sector.
