Bhubaneswar: With the government failing to meet their demands even 4 months after giving the assurance, the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha has threatened to launch statewide agitation.
Speaking to media persons on Sunday, president of the association Prasanta Muduli said, “The government has failed to take any step to fulfil the drivers’ demands. If our demands are not met before July 30, we will be forced to resort to agitation again.”
Expressing his resentment over inordinate delay in fulfilling its promise, Muduli said it was apparent that the government was not serious about its commitment.
The Mahasngha, an association of drivers of different motor vehicles, had launched an agitation and picketed on major roads across the state on March 15. Following this, the chief secretary had held discussion with the association’s representatives. It was decided that a Board would be formed to fulfil the drivers’ 10-point charter of demands.
Their demands include social security, pension after 60 years of age, death benefits and insurance. They also want rest sheds every 100 km on major roads of the state and compensation if a driver cannot work after an accident.
