Fifteen auto drivers in Hyderabad have sadly taken their own lives due to lack of work. KT Rama Rao, the working president of BRS, is calling on the government to provide financial support to the families of the victims. In an open letter to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, Rao criticized the government for not keeping its promises and for neglecting the needs of the people.
Rao explained that during the past ten years, all communities in Telangana were content, but within just 55 days of the new administration, many sections of society have become vulnerable. Auto drivers are particularly affected, as there is a lack of demand for their services. This has put immense pressure on their families, making it difficult for them to survive. Some drivers are even struggling to pay their children’s school fees.
Tragically, fifteen auto drivers have taken their own lives in recent times. This dire situation has left their families devastated. Additionally, those who drive hired autos are facing even worse conditions. The public was deeply saddened when they witnessed a tribal auto driver’s brother burning his vehicle in front of the Praja Bhavan.
Rao believes that it is the government’s responsibility to support the families of these drivers who have lost their jobs or lost their lives due to poor policies. He is demanding financial assistance of Rs 10,000 per month for the 6.5 lakh drivers in the state, as well as an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to the families of the fifteen deceased drivers.
Rao also criticized the government for merely changing the name of the Praja Bhavan without taking real action to help the people. He warned that if their demands are not met, he and 6.5 lakh auto drivers will organize a movement to fight for their rights.
