Kerala Private Bus Operators to Begin Indefinite Hunger Strike on October 27

Office-bearers of the Kerala State Private Bus Operators Federation will start an indefinite hunger strike in front of the Secretariat from October 27. The protest aims to demand measures to protect the private bus sector, which operators state has suffered due to the State government's Priyadarshini free-ride scheme.

Protest Details

This decision follows a protest march to the Secretariat held on Wednesday. Hundreds of bus owners, including women, took part in the march after it began at the Martyrs' Column, also known as Rakthasakshi Mandapam. The protest meeting was presided over by State president K.K. Thomas and inaugurated by Raju Apsara, who serves as the State president of the Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi. District presidents and secretaries from various districts led the march and demonstration.

Key Demands

Federation president K.K. Thomas and vice-president Saranya Manoj will undertake the indefinite fast. Their demands include protecting the private bus industry from the impact of the Priyadarshini scheme, raising bus fares, revising student concessions, and implementing the recommendations given to the government by an expert committee led by Padmakumar IPS.

Context

Private bus operators in various regions often rely heavily on everyday commuter fares to cover operational costs and maintain fleet vehicles. Friction between transport unions and state governments frequently arises when new public welfare schemes or free-ride policies are introduced without parallel financial support or fare adjustments for private operators.