While transport remains to be one of the most important sectors in the country, it is disappointing that both the Central and State governments are working in a way that deprives the rights of workers, said International Federation of Trade Unions (IFTU) State secretary U. Venkateswara Rao on Sunday.
At the 12th general meeting of the Pragatiseela Auto Workers’ Union held in Vijayawada, Mr. Venkateswara Rao said the governments have looked at the sector as a mere source of income but did not care about the welfare of the workers.
IFTU State general secretary K. Polari said the TDP-led NDA government in the State should fulfil its promise and withdraw G.O. No. 21, introduced by the YSRCP government, which lays down provisions for stricter penalties for minor violations. He called on the workers to unite and fight for their rightful demands.
“Earlier, if an autorickshaw driver was found taking more passengers than is permitted, a fine of ₹300 per extra customer used to be levied. Now, irrespective of how many extra customers there are, it is considered a permit violation and a driver is having to pay ₹10,000 as fine,” explained the union president, D. Srinivasa Rao.
The penalties for lack of driving licence renewal, for entering into other districts are also very high, starting from ₹5,000, he said, pointing out that some flood-hit autorickshaw workers are yet to receive the full compensation of ₹20,000.
The leaders said while the TDP-led NDA government had promised to them a welfare board during elections, it is yet to be realised. “Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had also announced that on coming to power, his government would extend a financial aid of ₹15,000 to every taxi, auto and heavy vehicle driver having a badge. That, too, remains to be fulfilled,” Mr. Srinivasa Rao said, urging the government to address their concerns.
The meeting, which focussed on issues concerning auto workers, was concluded with passing of resolutions on the above issues.
Published – March 24, 2025 07:54 am IST
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