Although the members of the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Association had called for a 24-hour bandh, it was called off by 2.30 p.m. after the Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy visited the protest site at Freedom Park and assured that most of their demands would be fulfilled by the State government in due time. However, the Federation has made it clear that they will continue their strike in different ways if the government fails to keep its word.
More than 15,000 protestors had gathered at various places in the city in the first half of the day while around 12,000 of them congregated at Freedom Park. Emphasising that he is on their side while addressing the protesters, Mr. Reddy said that while three of the 30 demands placed by the private transport unions will be implemented soon, the decision on 27 others would be made after discussions with the Chief Minister.
“We will definitely constitute a welfare board for the drivers as per their demands while also making arrangements to support their children’s education. I will also hold discussions with the Housing Minister about their request to form a colony for drivers. We will also take steps to provide loans at lower interest rates to drivers which would also get easier once the welfare board is established,” he said.
