Bhubaneswar: Online taxi drivers staged a protest at Master Canteen Square in Bhubaneswar to present various demands. The demonstration disrupted local traffic and later turned violent. In response, Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena issued a strict warning against individuals who damaged public property during the agitation. Police Warning and Legal Action The police department announced strict legal steps against drivers who engaged in violence. DCP Meena stated that the administration will enforce the law against every offender. The police department confirmed the following actions: Police officers will seize the vehicles of all individuals who damaged government property. The police will register formal criminal cases against the violent protesters. Law enforcement personnel will arrest the troublemakers and produce them in court. Officers have already detained several persons who took part in the vandalism. Clarification on Drivers' Demands DCP Meena explained the administration's stance on the drivers' agitation. He stated that online taxi drivers work directly with private ride-hailing companies. Because these platforms operate as private businesses, the state government does not control their internal wage structures, incentive models, or company rules. The DCP stated that the drivers' demands against the government are not valid. He clarified that the state government cannot resolve private contract issues between app-based platforms and their partner drivers. The authorities advised the drivers to address their workplace grievances directly with their respective private employers rather than staging violent protests on public roads. Restoring Public Order Master Canteen Square connects several major commercial zones and transit points in the city. The sudden protest blocked key roads and caused significant inconvenience to daily commuters and local businesses. Police units quickly moved to the location to disperse unruly crowds and restore normal traffic flow. The police department emphasized that citizens must follow the law during public demonstrations. The authorities warned that the police force will strictly punish anyone who destroys public assets or threatens public peace.
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