Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangh is embroiled in an internal conflict, with its president, Prasant Menduli, facing opposition from some drivers.
If sources are to be believed, a mini truck owners’ association has filed a complaint against Menduli at the Mancheswar police station, accusing him of using undemocratic methods and insulting drivers and owners.
After a complaint was filed against him, Menduli, in a video, appealed to the drivers, saying, “Brothers, consider this situation. Those who want to leave the Mahasangh, please leave the union. We will refund the money, but we won’t keep you as members. He also announced that the union will take photos of all drivers who operate vehicles and will return the membership fees to those who want to leave.
Menduli has stated that the government has agreed to consider five out of seven demands, but the union will not call off the agitation without a written commitment. Menduli has called upon drivers from all 30 districts in the state to join the movement.
The internal crisis within the union may affect its ability to negotiate effectively with the government and achieve its demands.
