Auto drivers to stage massive protest on April 13 demanding fulfilment of various demands

Auto drivers to stage massive protest on April 13 demanding fulfilment of various demands

Mangalore Today News Network

Ullal, Apr 11, 2026: District auto rickshaw drivers have announced a massive protest rally on April 13, urging the government to fulfil their various demands, said Abdul Jaleel K., President of Auto Rajakannmar Union, Dakshina Kannada.

Speaking at a press meet held at Ullal Press Club in Thokkottu on Friday, he said the protest will highlight key demands including a uniform permit system across the district and fare revision. Auto drivers from different parts of the district are expected to participate.

He urged the government to immediately address the issues faced by drivers and implement a “one district–one permit” system, allowing autos to operate freely in both urban and rural areas.

At the same time, he clarified that rural autos should not be allowed to operate commercially in city limits. If they do, penalties may be imposed as per rules. However, he questioned whether it is fair for police to impose fines of up to Rs 10,000 when drivers use their autos for personal purposes, such as transporting family members or taking patients to hospitals in emergencies.

He also pointed out that vehicles operating with rural permits may face insurance issues in case of accidents. “We are paying taxes regularly and have already submitted representations to the Deputy Commissioner and SP. We hope they will respond positively,” he said.

Drivers are also facing difficulties in refilling gas, he added, alleging that though gas is available at some pumps, it is not being supplied to certain autos. He urged pump owners not to create inconvenience to the public.

Union General Secretary Shafiq Boliyar also spoke. Protest committee convener Siddiq Kodakkal, Karavali Auto Park Mudipu President Harish Gindeper, Union Vice-President Mansoor Malar, Joint Secretary Shakhiq Salettur, and members Sharif Manchi, Nisar Deralakatte, Tahseen Thokkottu, Imran Ullal, Rizwan Kanachur, and Usman Sajip were present.