Shimla, July 2,
Clearly tension between taxi operators in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab have reached a boiling point, with recent violent incidents and threats forcing the Himachal government to intervene.
This friction has been exacerbated by recent violent incidents, including the murder of a Himachal taxi driver in Punjab and the vandalization of 15 taxis in Bharatgarh, Punjab. Himachal taxi operators have reported being threatened and forced to return empty from Chandigarh.
In response to these escalating tensions, Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Minister Aniruddh Singh assured that the officials of Himachal and Punjab would collaborate to resolve the dispute. Singh emphasized the long-standing cooperation between taxi operators of both states and stressed the importance of maintaining mutual brotherhood. He assured that police action would be taken against those breaking the law and promised a swift resolution to the tensions.
The minister’s response came after Rajendra Thakur, Chairman of the All Himachal Commercial Vehicle Joint Action Committee, pointed out that recent violent incidents in tourist hotspots like Dalhousie, McLeodganj, and Manali were wrongly attributed to taxi drivers. Thakur clarified that these acts were perpetrated by mischievous elements, not taxi operators, but have nonetheless negatively impacted the business of Himachal taxi operators.
Noteworthy that the situation was further inflamed by a viral video depicting a street fight between taxi union members from both states in Manali.
Therefore the Himachal Pradesh government has committed to intervene and resolve the ongoing conflict between the taxi unions of Manali and Punjab.
With the situation still developing, it’s crucial for both states to work together to restore peace and ensure the safety and livelihood of their taxi operators, stated travel trade professional Nitin.
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