South Goa taxi operators cry foul over harassment, petition police

A delegation of taxi operators is seen with DySP Sidhant Shirodkar.

MARGAO
Concerned Taxi Operators from South Goa on Thursday submitted a memorandum to the South Goa Superintendent of Police alleging harassment meted out to them by local drivers along the Salcete coastal belt, Calangute, Baga and recently in Canacona.

In the memorandum submitted to Sub-divisional Police Officer, Margao DySP Sidhant Shirodkar, in the presence of Margao Police Station in-charge, PI Suraj Samant, the taxi drivers alleged that local drivers from their respective areas have been repeatedly harassing their drivers without any authority. “They often come in groups (mob) and unnecessarily demand to see our PSV badge, taxi meter, booking details, etc. Even when we stop briefly for tea breaks or lunch, they forcefully tell us to leave the place, argue unnecessarily, and make us vacate the spot,” the memorandum stated.

The memorandum alleged that one of their drivers was physically assaulted at Palolem and that a complaint has been lodged at the Canacona Police Station.

After giving the delegation a patient hearing, DySP Shirodkar said the complaint pertaining to Palolem will be forwarded to the Canacona Police Station for further action. He also promised to move the RTO for cancellation of the licence of the driver if the allegation of assault turns out to be true.

Drawing the attention of the district police chief to what they alleged as repeated harassment from local drivers, making it extremely difficult for them to carry out their duties as licensed and law-abiding taxi operators, they demanded strict action against those who are harassing genuine drivers.

They demanded that the authorities issue clear instructions so that no one without proper authority interferes with the lawful operation of their taxis and also ensure the safety of drivers and guests so that such incidents do not recur, thereby protecting the image of Goa’s tourism.

The memorandum has requested the SP, South, to conduct proper verification of all taxi drivers’ PSV badges and required documents, as many illegal taxi operators are operating without valid documents. “We, the legal drivers, possess all the necessary permits and documents, yet due to such illegal activities, we are unable to carry out our business smoothly,” the memorandum added.