Telangana auto, cab unions warn of statewide stir after talks fail

Hyderabad: A meeting between the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Telangana State auto and app-based unions and Labour Minister Gaddam Vivek and Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Monday ended without a breakthrough, prompting the unions to warn of a fresh statewide agitation.

The JAC leaders pressed for the immediate issuance of a government order (GO) to constitute a Welfare Board for auto drivers, pointing out that earlier assurances had not been followed by any concrete steps, even on rules and procedures. They also expressed disappointment that their memorandum was not accepted during the talks, which they said reflected a negligent approach to their problems.

On the demand for revised auto meter fares, the unions sought a minimum fare of ₹50 and ₹20 per kilometre thereafter. Minister Prabhakar said the government would consult officials and issue a GO, but JAC leader V. Maraiah insisted that no unilateral decision be taken without consulting auto driver representatives.

The unions also raised the issue of the promised ₹12,000 annual financial assistance, which the government claimed it lacked funds to provide. The leaders accused the government of continuous delays and warned that auto drivers across the state would be forced to strike if the approach remained unchanged.

Regarding cab drivers' issues, the ministers said discussions would soon be held with the Aggregators Committee. However, the union leaders expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating that the attitude of the ministers and transport officials had remained unchanged for the past two-and-a-half years.