Bandh: B'luru halted, minister gives in to unions

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: After an assurance from Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy that most of their demands would be fulfilled, the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations called off their daylong strike in the city on Monday afternoon.

Of the 30 demands made by the Federation, the Minister said he has agreed to fulfill 27 barring those related to the 'Shakti' scheme on free travel for women, monthly grants to auto drivers, and exemption of life tax on vehicles costing between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.

Earlier on Monday, normal life was affected owing to the ‘bandh' as commuters, office goers and students faced inconvenience in getting autorickshaws and cabs to their destinations.

Though a traffic advisory was issued by Bengaluru Traffic Police, vehicular movement was affected in many parts of the city due to the protest march carried out by members of the Federation from the city's Majestic area to Freedom Park this morning.

The Federation comprises a total of 32 private transport associations. Reddy met members of the Federation at Freedom Park and assured them that of the 30 demands, he would fulfill 27.

Talking to reporters, the Minister said the government will try to meet all demands of the private transport association.

Explaining the 30 demands submitted by the Federation, Reddy said two of them are with regard to the government's Shakti scheme and another on the tax issue while another four demands which they have raised are pending in court.

“We have to appoint a lawyer to fight in court to get a stay. As for the demand pertaining to financial cover (the losses they have faced) that CM has to decide. They have asked for a separate transportation board, and they are demanding an Indira Canteen at the airport. They have also demanded loan facilities for private taxi owners and another demand pertains to the appbased cab service Ola and Uber.. The case is still pending in court", he said.

“... some of the matters need amendments in the assembly while some matters are pending in court. I want to help them,” he said.