Hunger strike launched in Mussoorie
On Wednesday, a group of fourteen golf‑cart drivers in the hill station of Mussoorie commenced a three‑day hunger strike. Their protest is directed at the municipal administration, which they allege has stalled the revival of cart services and ignored their right to work.
Core grievances
The drivers contend that recent municipal actions have deepened an employment crisis. According to senior driver Ranjit Singh Chauhan, the authorities split the workers’ union into rival factions, weakening collective bargaining and leaving many without work since April.
Specific demands
In a memorandum submitted through the Mussoorie Sub‑Divisional Magistrate, the strikers listed three primary requests:
- Immediate registration of the 2025 golf‑cart fleet allocated by the municipality, which they say will allow the unemployed drivers to return to work.
- Implementation of the 2024‑25 rehabilitation scheme prepared for rickshaw operators, together with a review meeting to ensure all eligible workers receive the promised benefits.
- Creation of urgent job opportunities for cart drivers whose livelihoods have been put on hold.
Warning of escalation
The protesters have warned that if their demands are not satisfied within the three‑day period, they will broaden the agitation and turn the fast into an indefinite strike. They argue that the continued suspension of cart operations and the delayed rehabilitation plan are jeopardising their families’ incomes.
Outlook
As the hunger strike unfolds, municipal officials are under growing pressure to act quickly. The drivers have pledged to sustain their protest until a satisfactory resolution is achieved, highlighting the urgent need to restore both the cart service and the associated employment.
