The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation fired a bus driver from a private hire bus for allegedly criticizing Congress leaders protesting against fuel price hikes. The driver, Ashok, made remarks while driving from Jagtial to Dharmapuri, advising protestors to focus on farmers’ produce rather than the protest. Despite denying criticism of any political party, he was dismissed from service.
The driver’s comments led to complaints from Congress leaders, resulting in his removal from duty. Opposition parties condemned the decision, calling for his reinstatement and criticizing the government’s action as authoritarian. Political leaders from various parties, including Bharat Rashtra Samithi and Telangana Rakshana Samithi, voiced support for the driver and demanded his reinstatement.
Amidst the controversy, TRS leader K. Kavitha accused the ruling Congress of undermining democracy by dismissing the driver for suggesting the purchase of farmers’ crops. She emphasized the importance of supporting farmers and reinstating the driver to uphold democratic values. Warning of potential protests, she urged for the driver’s reinstatement to avoid further unrest.
