LPG tanker drivers resume work; cops accused of suppressing agitation

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jan 4, 2016 : The LPG tanker drivers who were protesting since the past few days  against the killing of a colleague in Andhra Pradesh have resumed work  on January 4, Monday. In the meantime, allegations are being heard that  the police had  forcibly suppressed the protest after yielding to pressure from tanker owners.

According to some sources  as many as 800  tankers had participated in the protest  and most have resumed duty while alternate  drivers have been hired in place of those continuing agitation.

In the meantime, Muneer Katipalla, State President of the DYFI alleged that the police were not allowing the protestors near the HPCL office. He also stated that the protests will continue. While admitting that  nearly half of the protesting drivers have resumed work, he said the remaining drivers are still protesting.

In another development on January 3, Sunday, activists of the CITU and DYFI picketed the Suratkal police station with a demand to suspend ACP North Division Madan Gaonkar. Their allegation was that Gaonkar had used force to suppress the protest at the behest of tanker owners.

DYFI leader Muneer also demanded a departmental enquiry against the ACP. He further  accused Gaonkar of threatening the protestors.

Deputy Commissioner A.B. Ibrahim has said   he would seek details regarding the alleged atrocities on tanker drivers.