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Guwahati: Hundreds of app-based cab drivers from across Assam staged a protest at Chachal Dharnasthal in Guwahati on Tuesday, voicing anger against what they called years of exploitation by ride-hailing platforms and neglect by the state transport authorities.
Organised by the Assam State Drivers Association (ASDA), the protest ran from 9 AM to 3 PM and saw many drivers shaving their heads in a symbolic act of despair. Protesters submitted a memorandum to the state transport minister demanding clear policy protections for thousands of drivers dependent on app-based platforms.
“These platforms are pushing us into financial ruin,” said ASDA President Dhrubaraj Asom. “We are not just losing earnings — we are losing our dignity, mental peace, and for some, even the will to live.”
The drivers, many of whom had invested in commercial vehicles to become self-reliant, alleged that high commissions charged by the platforms and the unchecked use of private vehicles for commercial purposes have reduced their income drastically.
The association also claimed that many drivers are now unable to repay vehicle loans and are falling into deep financial stress, with some reportedly attempting suicide. They also accused aggregators of operating without accountability and criticized the transport department for poor enforcement of commercial vehicle regulations.
