Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has stepped up his criticism of Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde over the state government’s decision to allow app-based bike taxi services.
Raut questioned the government’s move, arguing that the introduction of bike taxis could directly affect the livelihoods of thousands of autorickshaw drivers across Maharashtra.
In a letter to Sarnaik, Raut said the government should consider the interests of existing auto drivers before expanding bike taxi operations. He particularly highlighted the dependence of many young people on autorickshaws as a source of income.
Raut also targeted the Shinde-led political establishment over the policy, questioning whether the government had adequately assessed its impact on traditional autorickshaw drivers.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader argued that autorickshaw drivers are already facing financial pressures and that allowing bike taxis could increase competition and further reduce their earnings.
Raut said the concerns of working-class and unemployed Marathi youth should not be ignored while framing transport policies. He urged Sarnaik to reconsider the decision and examine its possible impact on drivers who depend on autorickshaws for their livelihood.
The criticism comes amid an ongoing debate in Maharashtra over the regulation of app-based mobility services and their impact on traditional transport workers.
Raut’s remarks add a political dimension to the bike taxi issue, with the opposition questioning the government’s priorities and demanding greater protection for existing autorickshaw drivers.
Also Read: Mumbai: Fadnavis Says Auto, Taxi Drivers Need Basic Marathi Skills, Not Fluency
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