CPI seeks Modi’s intervention in truckers’ strike

New Delhi, April 2 (IANS) Expressing concern at the ongoing strike by truck operators leading to price rise, the Communist Party of India (CPI) on Sunday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modis intervention to ensure a dialogue between truck owners and the transport department to end the stir.

The South India Motor Transport Association and South Zone Motor Transporters’ Welfare Association (SZMTWA) began an indefinite strike from Thursday mainly against the proposed 50 per cent hike in the third-party insurance premium. The All India Confederation of Goods Vehicles Owners’ Association (ACOGOA) joined the protests from Saturday.

In a letter to Modi, CPI General Secretary S. Sudhakar Reddy said the abnormal hike in the insurance charges coupled with increase in penalties and licence fee on commercial vehicles, including taxis and autos, has burdened operators.

"The strike is resulting in price-rise and causing loss of crores of rupees to the national wealth. Increase of vehicle insurance premiums should be reasonable. As for the big increase in penalties and licence fee, this should be totally withdrawn," he said.

"The strike will cause more difficulties. I request you to intervene immediately and ask the transport department to discuss with truck owners and solve the problem immediately," Reddy added.