Hyderabad Auto Drivers to Observe City Bandh on January 20, Demand Total Prohibition

Auto drivers across Hyderabad and Secunderabad have called for a one-day City Auto Bandh on January 20, demanding total prohibition in Telangana and resolution of long-pending issues affecting their livelihood. The bandh call has received full support from the Mahatma Gandhi Telangana Auto Drivers JAC, intensifying pressure on the state government.

The announcement was made by Mohd. Amanullah Khan, Convenor of the Mahatma Gandhi Telangana Auto Drivers JAC, who urged auto drivers in the twin cities to participate in large numbers and make the strike a success.

Support for Auto Bandh on January 20

In a press statement, Amanullah Khan said the bandh was being organised to highlight the genuine and long-pending grievances of auto drivers. He appealed to drivers to stand united and use the bandh as a strong message to the government.

According to him:

• Auto drivers are facing severe financial stress
• Long-standing demands remain unaddressed
• The bandh will be a decisive protest to seek government attention

Free Bus Scheme Blamed for Livelihood Crisis

Khan alleged that the free bus travel scheme for women has badly affected the income of auto drivers. He claimed the policy reduced daily earnings and pushed thousands of drivers into hardship.

He said the situation has reached a point where a “do or die” movement has become necessary to protect the livelihood of auto drivers.

Demand for Total Prohibition

Raising the slogan “Sharab Hatao, Telangana Bachao”, the auto drivers’ leader demanded:

• Immediate implementation of total prohibition in Telangana
• Strong action against rising liquor sales
• Policies that prioritise public safety and welfare

Khan alleged that increased liquor availability has contributed to rising road accidents, crimes, and incidents involving women.

Criticism of State Government

Taking a strong swipe at the Congress-led government, Khan criticised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, saying that despite claims of social reform, the state was being pushed towards what he termed a “Drunkards Telangana.”

He alleged that during the past two years, the state witnessed:

• A rise in road accidents
• Increase in crime rates
• Growing safety concerns for women

Bandh to Serve as Warning Protest

Khan said the proposed auto bandh would act as a “Karan Batao” protest, warning the government to address auto drivers’ issues without further delay. He asserted that the government had no alternative but to respond positively to the demands.

The January 20 auto bandh is expected to impact city transport services significantly, as auto drivers prepare for a united protest to demand policy changes and long-overdue relief.

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