Mon Mar 24 02:24:43 UTC 2025: **Auto Workers Protest Unfair Penalties and Broken Promises in Andhra Pradesh**
VIJAYAWADA, March 24, 2025 – Auto rickshaw drivers in Andhra Pradesh are protesting what they call unfair penalties and broken promises from both the state and central governments. The International Federation of Trade Unions (IFTU) criticized the governments for prioritizing revenue over worker welfare.
At a meeting of the Pragatiseela Auto Workers’ Union, union leaders highlighted exorbitant fines for minor violations. For example, carrying extra passengers, previously fined ₹300 per passenger, now results in a blanket ₹10,000 fine for permit violation. Similarly, penalties for license renewal lapses and inter-district travel have been sharply increased to ₹5,000 or more. This is particularly burdensome, leaders argue, given that some flood-affected workers haven’t yet received promised ₹20,000 compensation.
Further fueling the protest, the TDP-led NDA government has failed to deliver on election promises, including the establishment of a welfare board and a ₹15,000 financial aid package for auto, taxi, and heavy vehicle drivers. Union leaders are demanding the government address these issues and withdraw G.O. No. 21, which introduced the stricter penalties. The meeting concluded with resolutions calling for united action to achieve these demands.
First Piper 