Karnataka Truck Owners' Associations to Initiate Strike Over Diesel Tax Increase
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Synopsis
Karnataka's truck owners’ associations are set to begin an indefinite strike due to rising diesel taxes, increased toll charges, and harassment from RTO officials. The protest, supported by major transport organizations, is expected to halt operations of over six lakh trucks, severely affecting the supply of essential goods across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Indefinite strike by truck owners begins midnight.
- Protests against diesel tax, toll charges, and RTO harassment.
- Supported by major transport organizations.
- Six lakh trucks expected to stop operations.
- Essential goods supply likely to be disrupted.
Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) The truck owners’ associations in Karnataka have resolved to commence an indefinite statewide strike starting at midnight on Monday, protesting the escalation in sales tax on fuel, the rise in toll fees, and alleged mistreatment by RTO officials.
The Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association (FOKSLOAA) and the Karnataka Goods Transporters’ Association have collaboratively called for this indefinite strike.
The All India Motor Transport Congress, the principal organization for motor transport operators encompassing various state and regional groups, has expressed its support for the strike.
An estimated six lakh trucks and lorries are anticipated to cease operations from midnight, a decision expected to disrupt numerous essential services. The truck owners had set a deadline of April 14 for the government to address their demands, including a rollback in diesel prices.
In light of the government's failure to respond to their grievances, the associations have opted to move forward with the indefinite strike.
The strike is poised to significantly affect the supply of essential goods. Trucks transporting jelly stones, loose sand, and various other items will suspend their operations. Additionally, vehicles delivering petrol and diesel will halt their services, as confirmed by sources.
Speaking to the media, G.R. Shanmugappa, president of the Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association, indicated that the strike aims to enforce five crucial demands.
He noted that there have been no discussions initiated by the government thus far.
“Why is Karnataka the only state requiring RTO check posts? In the past six years, since Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assumed office, we have not conducted any protests. Starting tonight, even LPG tankers will not be loaded,” Shanmugappa stated.
He also mentioned that a discussion regarding a national-level protest is scheduled for April 27 and 28.
“Six lakh trucks and lorries will halt their operations. The strike will commence at midnight,” he reiterated.
Key issues include a significant increase in VAT on diesel, leading to a rise of Rs 5 per litre over the past nine months, substantially inflating operational expenses for transporters; ongoing extortion and mistreatment at state toll plazas, imposing unnecessary financial strain.
The non-abolition of border checkposts, which continue to operate unnecessarily despite the implementation of GST; the proposed hike in fitness renewal fees for older vehicles, which will severely impact small and medium operators.
Unjustifiable no-entry restrictions in Bengaluru are obstructing operational efficiency and the timely delivery of goods. Widespread harassment by NBFCs and microfinance institutions, including unlawful vehicle seizures and mental harassment of vehicle owners.
