Taximen allege harassment after leader declared history-sheeter

Taxi operators gathered outside Anjuna Police Station on Thursday morning in support of Yogesh Govekar, protesting his labelling as a history-sheeter.

Photo Credits: The Goan

MAPUSA
Hundreds of traditional taxi drivers staged a protest outside the Anjuna Police Station on Wednesday after Yogesh Govekar, alias 'Mogambo', a prominent leader of the Taxi Owners' Association, was reportedly registered as a history-sheeter by the local police.

Govekar, known for his vocal opposition to app-based taxi services and his advocacy for the rights of Goan taxi operators, was summoned by the police.

However, he arrived at the station accompanied by dozens of fellow taxi owners and drivers in a strong show of solidarity. The group gathered outside the station, chanting slogans and demanding justice.

Protesters alleged that local taxi operators are being systematically targeted to make way for app-based cab aggregators. They claim that the State government's policies are endangering their livelihoods, which have supported Goan families for generations.

“We are Goans. Traditional taxi owners are being treated like criminals while outsiders are being favoured. We stand with Yogesh today because tomorrow it could be any one of us,” said one of the demonstrators.

Govekar, speaking to the press, denounced the move to brand him a history-sheeter as an attempt to silence dissent. “The Goa government, through cab aggregators, is trying to take the local taxi business out of the hands of Goan youth. This is unacceptable. We have always raised our voices against injustice and will continue to do so,” Govekar said.

He warned that if the government’s proposed notification to allow new aggregator services is implemented, local taxi operators would be pushed out entirely.

“Because we oppose these policies, the government is trying to suppress us. Declaring me a history-sheeter is part of that effort,” he added.

Govekar currently faces seven cases at Anjuna Police Station and two more at Calangute. According to Anjuna Police Inspector Suraj Gawas, a list of individuals with multiple cases was sent to senior officials and five names were marked for history-sheeter status, including Govekar.

To prevent any disruption, police deployed a heavy presence outside the station. Despite the tension, the protest remained peaceful.

Taxi Owners’ Association members and other drivers condemned the police action and vowed to continue their fight to "protect the traditional taxi trade in Goa".