Bandh: Bus, auto services unlikely to be hit in Kodagu

Kodagu is unlikely to be affected by the two-day nationwide bandh call given by various labour organisations. Private buses will operate as usual.

“We are not supporting the bandh call. We do not wish to inconvenience the general public. We only extend moral support to the bandh,” said Bus Owners’ Association president Ramesh Joyappa.

Autorickshaws too will operate as usual in Madikeri, Virajpet and Somwarpet taluks. The Autorickshaw Owners’ and Drivers’ Association has not extended their support to the stir.

The Association of commerce and industry in the district has also not extended support to the bandh. As a result, all business activities will continue normally.

KSRTC bus drivers and conductors, however, have extended their support to the bandh and the KSRTC bus service is likely to be hit in the district. Passengers who travel to far-off areas like Bengaluru, Hassan, Mysuru and Mangaluru from Madikeri will face inconvenience on Tuesday.

The labour organisations’ joint action committee has given a call for nationwide stir and it is supported by the District Gram Panchayat Library Supervisors’ Association and other labour organisations.

On January 8, labourers will carry out a protest at Siddapura. A protest will also be staged in Madikeri on January 9.

Labour organisation leader P R Bharath said, “The economic policy of the Union government has pushed farmers and labourers to hardship. The services of anganwadi workers and Asha workers should be regularised. Minimum wages and pension scheme should be implemented.”