Why Maharashtra cab drivers have gone on indefinite hunger strike
What's the story
Thousands of app-based cab drivers in Maharashtra have gone on an indefinite hunger strike, starting today. The protest is mainly focused in Mumbai and Pune, with the drivers demanding a clear policy from the State Transport Department. The move comes after several unsuccessful attempts at negotiations between the union representatives and the department.
Policy enforcement
Drivers demand enforcement of RTO rules
The striking drivers are demanding the Maharashtra government to enforce Regional Transport Office (RTO) rules that bar private two-wheelers from being used for commercial purposes. Union leader Keshav Kshirsagar has accused authorities of not responding despite several protests, calling the situation "alarming." He said the government appears helpless against multinational aggregators.
Ongoing protest
Hunger strike to continue until assurance is received
The drivers have vowed to continue their hunger strike at Azad Maidan in Mumbai and outside the RTO office in Pune, until they receive a written assurance of a permanent ban or regulation of these services. The protesters are also raising safety concerns, claiming that many bike-taxi aggregators do not offer adequate insurance or background verification for riders, posing a risk to passengers.
Impact on commuters
Strike affects commuters in major cities
The strike has already started affecting commuters in many areas, with reports of higher wait times and surge pricing as many drivers stay off the roads in solidarity. While the state government had earlier taken sporadic action against the bike-taxi operators, the lack of a definitive policy has left both drivers and aggregators in a legal gray area.