Mumbai: Swabhiman union, BJP opposed to Rao-led auto strike

Swabhiman Sanghtana auto-rickshaw union today claimed that Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan had assured that police cases would be filed against the activists of Sharad Rao-led union, which has given a call for strike from August 21 midnight, if they vandalised other rickshaws plying on the streets.
Rao-led Mumbai Auto-rickshawmen's Union has called for a three-day strike demanding increase in fares.
A delegation-led by Swabhiman Sanghtana leader Nitesh Rane and including leaders of its auto union met the Maharashtra Chief Minister today, seeking action against the possible vandalism during the strike.
"Swabhiman auto union is against the strike, and to help commuters, more than 20,000 autos of Swabhiman will ply during the strike," union president K K Tiwari said.

The Swabhiman auto union also demanded during the meeting with Chavan that auto renewal permits should be valid for one year and not just six months. Temporary badges should be given to the auto drivers and the RTO should not fine Rs 100 for not wearing badges, the union demanded.
Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar also met Chavan today, demanding that the auto rickshaws not participating in the strike should be provided security, and Essential Services Maintenance Act should be invoked against Rao's union.