Maharashtra drivers to strike on October 9 over Transport Department corruption.
Strike follows months of protests and ignored demands, including hunger strikes and “Jail Bharo.”
Travel disruptions expected; move aims to get Prime Minister’s attention.
Pune, 6th October 2025: On Thursday, October 9, 2025, cab, taxi, and rickshaw drivers throughout Maharashtra will halt passenger services to protest against alleged corruption within the state's Transport Department. The Indian Gig Workers Forum, which has been advocating for measures against mismanagement and unlawful activities by ride-hailing companies, is organizing the strike.
Dr. Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, the Forum's President, stated that drivers have been staging protests at Azad Maidan since July 15, 2025, employing hunger strikes, shutdowns, and demonstrations to draw attention to the matter. He mentioned that ride-hailing companies such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido are still functioning unlawfully, and the authorities have not enforced the regulations.
The protest escalated when the Transport Minister declined to engage with the demonstrators, resulting in a 'Jail Bharo' campaign on September 30, during which hundreds willingly got arrested. Subsequently, a meeting took place between the protestors and Transport Department officials, overseen by the Chief Minister’s office. However, the protestors allege that the directives provided to address the issue were disregarded.
In Pune, similar to other regions of the state, residents are expected to encounter travel interruptions because of the strike. In past demonstrations, almost all drivers took part, leading airport officials to recommend that travellers arrange different transportation options. The Forum stated that the strike on October 9 aims to capture Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention, aligning with a significant financial conference in Mumbai.