TV
A state-wide indefinite protest by the Odisha Driver Mahasangha (Odisha Drivers’ Union) commenced on Tuesday, as transport workers across the state observed protests by refusing to drive their vehicles to press for a seven-point charter of demands.
The movement, which affects commercial and private vehicle operations in multiple districts, is being led by the union’s president, Prashant Menduli and aims to highlight key grievances related to driver welfare, policy decisions, and infrastructure support.
Opposition to Police Empowerment in Vehicle Checking
One of the primary issues raised by the agitating drivers is their opposition to the state’s move to grant vehicle-checking powers to the police.
The union claims that such delegation of authority, previously held by the Transport Department, could lead to harassment and misuse of power. It has expressed concern that this measure would bring more hardship for already overburdened drivers, many of whom operate under strenuous schedules with limited institutional support.
Demand for Recognition and Basic Amenities
The protesting body is also demanding the official recognition of September 1 as ‘Driver’s Day’ in Odisha.
According to Menduli, such a symbolic move would go a long way in acknowledging the contribution of lakhs of drivers who keep the wheels of the state’s economy running.
Additionally, the union has demanded the construction of rest shelters and toilet facilities at designated vehicle parking areas across the state.
Inclusion of Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Under Welfare Board
Another key demand of the protest is the inclusion of auto-rickshaw drivers under the ambit of the Driver Welfare Board.
The union has argued that current welfare mechanisms largely exclude informal drivers, leaving a substantial portion of the workforce without access to insurance, medical benefits, or social security.
Also Read | Odisha Govt orders probe into KISS land grab allegations
Essential Services Exempted
Despite the scale of the protest, the union has announced that drivers engaged in emergency and essential services, such as ambulances, fire brigades, and disaster response vehicles, will remain exempt from the strike.
“We are holding a peaceful protest along the streets of the capital city. The union will appeal to drivers to participate in the protest, but those involved in emergency services and food delivery services will be given way. We will ensure that no inconvenience comes to the public,” said Prashant Menduli.
This decision, the union said, is intended to avoid any disruption to critical public services while continuing to draw attention to the broader issues facing transport workers in the state.
Till the last report came in, the Odisha government had not issued a formal response to the protest. However, officials from the Transport and Home departments were reported to be monitoring the situation.
