On May 21, 2026, the Chalak Shakti Union declared a three-day strike in Delhi, protesting the lack of fare revisions for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. Union Vice President Anuj Kumar Rathore expressed concerns that fares have remained unchanged for the last 15 years, despite significant increases in the costs of CNG, petrol, and diesel. This stagnation has made it increasingly difficult for drivers to sustain their livelihoods, prompting the urgent need for fare adjustments.
Rathore explained that the strike, which runs from May 21 to 23, is a collective effort that includes auto, taxi, and drivers from ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber. He stated, "The rising prices of fuel are making it impossible for us to make ends meet, and we need the government to act now." The previous fare structure, set at ₹12.5 per kilometre when the Delhi government implemented its taxi policy, has not been updated, leaving drivers frustrated and financially strained.
- Strike duration of three days — drivers urged to halt operations until the government responds.
- Previous appeals ignored — repeated requests for fare revisions have yielded no results.
- Legal actions taken — including a petition in the High Court to demand fare adjustments.
Rathore detailed the history of their appeals, noting that the Delhi High Court had previously ordered a fare revision, yet the Transport Commissioner’s assurances have not materialized into action. He stated that the Deputy Commissioner of the Delhi Transport Department, Sanjay Ailawadi, had indicated a potential fare increase of ₹20-25, pending approval from the Lieutenant Governor's office. However, this approval has yet to be realized, leaving drivers in a state of uncertainty.
The union leader urged drivers to remain united during the strike, emphasizing the need for solidarity to pressure the government into action. Rathore highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by both drivers and customers, stating, "The low fares lead to cancellations, impacting both parties involved." He also accused government-affiliated transport organizations of spreading confusion about the strike's legitimacy, asserting that they are disconnected from the challenges drivers face. The union remains firm in its stance, stating that they will call off the strike only when the government guarantees fare increases that reflect the current economic realities.
