Bhatkal: Expressing strong resentment over the allegations levelled by the Auto Rickshaw Drivers and Owners Association, the Bhatkal Taxi Drivers and Owners Association staged a protest at the Town Police Station and submitted a memorandum to the Police Inspector, addressed to the Bhatkal DySP, terming the accusations as baseless and misleading.
Leaders of the taxi union stated that certain auto rickshaw drivers in Bhatkal were allegedly operating beyond their legally permitted limits, in violation of transport regulations. They pointed out that the authorized travel limit for auto rickshaws is seven kilometres, yet some drivers had reportedly transported passengers to distant destinations, including Byndoor. According to the association, they had merely sought clarification from the concerned drivers and requested them to await appropriate directions from the district administration on the issue.
In the memorandum, the taxi union emphasized that if auto rickshaws begin operating to far-off areas without restriction, it would severely affect taxi drivers who have taken substantial loans to run their vehicles. The association clarified that they had only raised this concern and had neither harassed anyone nor forcibly taken money from any driver.
The union further alleged that false complaints were being lodged against taxi drivers and owners in an attempt to justify certain alleged irregular activities by a section of auto rickshaw drivers.
Police Inspector Divakar received the memorandum and assured the delegation that the matter would be examined and appropriate action taken after due inquiry. Taxi Drivers and Owners Association President Ganesh Devadiga, Secretary Jagadish Naik, Naveen Naik Kumta, Ramesh Kotian, Faisal Peezade, and several other members were present during the submission of the memorandum.