By TC News Desk
Agartala, 4th May 2025: Former Transport minister and CITU State President Manik Dey today raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of transport workers in Tripura and across the country.
Addressing a state-level convention organized by CITU ahead of the nationwide strike on May 20, Dey criticized the Central government’s implementation of the four labour codes, claiming it would have devastating consequences for workers in the unorganized transport sector.
“The life of transport workers has become increasingly difficult. Due to a massive surge in the number of e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws in recent years, competition has intensified to such an extent that many drivers are unable to earn a basic daily wage,” Dey told media persons.
He alleged that the new labour codes were contributing to the erosion of long-standing rights and entitlements of transport workers. “The idea of a fixed monthly salary is fading away. The few benefits they still receive are under threat,” he warned, adding that major trade unions across India have called for a general strike on May 20 to oppose these reforms.
Turning his focus to Tripura, Dey accused the BJP-led state government of failing to manage the transport sector effectively. “The entire transport system has collapsed under the present regime. Motor stands have turned into centres of extortion, and members of trade unions other than BMS are facing political harassment,” he claimed.
Highlighting rising unemployment, Dey said many are turning to driving e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws in the absence of other job opportunities. “But the situation is so dire now that there are too many vehicles and not enough passengers to sustain livelihoods,” he concluded.
