Scuffle During Drivers’ Strike Near Bhubaneswar, Police Lathi Charge To Clear NH

Bhubaneswar: A scuffle broke out between agitating activists of Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha and drivers from other states near Bhubaneswar on Thursday, prompting police to use lathi charge to clear the highway for smooth vehicular movement.

The two groups clashed on the National Highway in Tomando area when the agitating drivers tried to prevent vehicles carrying goods from other states from proceeding, sources said.

The agitating drivers, who were picketing on the highway as part of their protest, stopped the drivers from other states near Tomando and prevented them from entering the state capital.

As the drivers from outside states objected to this, a scuffle broke out. The entire area soon turned into a battlefield as both the groups exchanged blows and fought a pitched battle, disrupting movement of vehicles on the highway.

The situation was brought under control when police personnel in strength swung into action. Finding it tough to control the unruly drivers, police resorted to lathi charge to clear the highway and restore normalcy in vehicular movement.

“If anyone attempts to take law into their hand, stern action will be taken. All necessary steps will be taken to maintain law and order,” a senior police official at the spot.

The state-wide strike by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha entered its second day on Thursday. Around five lakh members of the Mahasangha continued to hit the streets to press for several demands that include social security including pension, insurance, and death benefits.

A large number of trucks and goods carrying vehicles were reportedly stranded at different entry points as the agitating drivers have blocked highways as part of their strike.

Meanwhile, the Private Bus Owners’ Association threatened to suspend bus services if immediate steps are not taken to clear the highways in view of agitation by Drivers’ Mahasangha.

Association secretary Debendra Sahu blamed the police for disruption in bus operations during the Drivers’ Mahasangha’s agitation.

He alleged that private bus drivers are being humiliated in the presence of police personnel and the cops are not taking any action. “The police are not providing protection to the drivers and passengers, how will we operate?” Sahu asked.