Auto-taxi drivers on two-day strike in Delhi-NCR. Why are they protesting

Delhi, the national capital, is set to encounter major transportation issues on August 22 and August 23 in connection with a strike organised by auto and taxi driver unions, IANS reported. This strike, involving more than 15 unions from Delhi-NCR, comes as a protest against app-based cab services, including Ola and Uber.
In the backdrop of reduced earnings of auto and taxi drivers and its impact on their livelihoods, these driver unions will be staging a protest against the adverse effects of app-based cab services.
Despite raising concerns about inadequate compensation on several occasions, the unions allege that the central and state governments failed to address their issues.
“For several years, we have been writing to governments and departments about companies like Ola and Uber, but no one listens. These companies present their side, and the government presents its side, but these businesses operate as a game of donations, with the government also involved. We demand an end to this game, ” news agency IANS quoted President of Delhi Auto Taxi Transport Congress Union Kishan Verma as saying.
Delhi Auto Taxi Transport Congress Union President accused private Ola and Uber taxi drivers of engaging in unethical activities involving alcohol and drug trade in addition to smuggling.
Kishan Verma said, “Employment for auto and taxi drivers, which is being affected or taken away, must be addressed. Private Ola and Uber taxis are involved in smuggling, and there is also trade in alcohol and drugs. To address these issues, we are going on strike. The organisation has decided that on August 22 and 23, all auto and taxi services in Delhi NCR will be suspended,” reported IANS.
Suggesting a ban on app-based cab services and the need for a government-backed application, the Union representative informed that ride-hailing service companies are charging 45 percent commission on their trips. He noted, “We are not getting anything. E-rickshaws and bikes with private number plates are plying on roads.”
During the strike, vehicles, including autos, kaali-peeli taxis, economic radio taxis, and taxis with all-India tourist permits, will be off the roads in the national capital.