Bhubaneswar Protest: 113 Arrested, 354 Vehicles Seized After Violence Over Drivers' Demands
Odisha Police have arrested 113 people in connection with the violence that erupted during a protest by app-based cab and auto-rickshaw drivers in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. The protest, which began on August 17, was part of a cease-work by drivers registered with online ride-hailing platforms, demanding a hike in fares, reduction in application fees, and social security benefits.
According to an officer of the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate, 113 arrested individuals have been forwarded to court, while 60 others who were detained have been released on bond of good behaviour. The police have also seized 354 vehicles for violating norms. So far, seven FIRs have been registered at the Kharvel Nagar police station in connection with the violence.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when hundreds of auto-rickshaws and taxis took out a rally from Raj Mahal Square and parked their vehicles along Mahatma Gandhi Marg, blocking the road and disrupting traffic movement near the Master Canteen and railway station areas. When police personnel attempted to persuade the protesters to clear the road, the agitators allegedly turned violent and pelted stones at them.
The protesters also allegedly vandalised three police vans and several buses during the agitation. At least 13 police personnel, including the inspector-in-charge of Capital police station, sustained injuries in the confrontation, said Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Additional Commissioner of Police Narasingha Bhol.
Police have warned that anyone taking the law into their own hands will be dealt with strictly as per the law. The Commissionerate has assured that all legal procedures are being followed in the investigation.
Meanwhile, the State transport authority has initiated a process for suspension and cancellation of permits of the auto-rickshaws used to block the main road. The Bhubaneswar-1 Regional Transport Officer (RTO) has issued show cause notices to all registered owners and permit holders concerned.
The notices require vehicle owners to furnish information regarding the person in whose control the vehicle was at the time of the incident, and whether it was used with the permission, direction, or knowledge of the owner. Owners are asked to submit written explanations along with required documents and appear for a personal hearing at the RTO office on the appointed date and time.
If no reply is received within the stipulated time or the concerned person remains absent, transport officers will take a decision regarding cancellation or suspension of the permit unilaterally, based on available records. The transport department has clarified that this action will not affect any other criminal or legal proceedings related to the incident.
The protest highlights ongoing grievances among drivers of ride-hailing platforms, who have been seeking better working conditions and economic security. The police and transport authorities have urged protesters to pursue their demands through lawful channels while ensuring public order is maintained.
