BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 4th July 2024: In a public demonstration held on Thursday, the Tripura branch of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and the All India Road Transport Workers Federation presented an 11-point charter of demands to the Transport commissioner. The procession began at the old motor stand wound its way through various city roads before culminating in a public deputation.
CITU state president Manik Dey highlighted the challenges faced by the transport industry nationwide. Rising diesel and petrol prices, coupled with exorbitant Tax fees, have put transport professionals at significant risk. In response, the CITU and the Road Transport Workers Federation have taken a stand.
The unions call for the reversal of all recent tax and fee hikes in the transport sector. The transport department must take effective steps to lower insurance costs for transport workers. A one-time waiver of tax on non-road vehicles is requested. Drivers face harassment during checks at 25 naka points between Churaibari and Agartala. The unions demand an end to this mistreatment. Increasing the number of new vehicles is crucial for the revival of the Tripura Road Transport Corporation (TRTC). All outstanding payments owed to transport workers must be resolved. Specific traffic rules should be established to protect e-rickshaw drivers from unwarranted harassment. The unions advocate for targeted social security measures. The government should take responsibility for health insurance, including premiums, pensions, regular health checks, and awareness camps. Measures are needed to prevent alarming fuel price increases that disproportionately affect road transport workers. The decision to halt three-wheeler registrations should be reconsidered.
Additionally, the unions call for an end to harassment within the transport department and the unjust enforcement of the Justice Code, which has led to fines and torture of transport workers.
The public deputation serves as a powerful expression of the unions’ commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of transport workers in Tripura.
