Rameswaram auto drivers demand action against three-wheelers operating without permits

CITU and AITUC auto drivers protest against unauthorized vehicles in Rameswaram, demanding permits and safety for passengers.

Auto drivers affiliated to Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) staged a sit-in protest at tehsildar office here on Monday, demanding action against autos operating inside the town without valid permission.  

CITU district leader Senthil said that all autos would have permit to operate their vehicles inside the town. In recent times, however, learning the demand, many outside autos moved into Rameswaram town.  

Also, learning the need of devotees visiting the town from other States, many private individuals without any proper licence or permission, rent two-wheelers on hourly and daily basis. “This is not only a loss to the auto drivers from the same town, but also a reason for many accidents happening inside the area,” he alleged.  

“It is feared that outside autos could cause trouble to passengers who are mostly devotees from non-Tamil speaking States. If the same town auto drivers take their rides, it will be safe for the passengers and also an assurance could be given to them,” he noted.  

The protesters demanded that the district administration issue identity cards to auto drivers registered in Rameswaram to distinguish them from outside auto drivers.