Lucknow | The Rashtriya Coolie Morcha has strongly opposed the use of battery-operated cars for carrying passenger luggage at railway stations, calling the move illegal and detrimental to the livelihood of licensed porters.
Addressing a virtual national meeting, the Morcha stated that the responsibility of carrying passengers’ luggage at railway stations is officially assigned to the porter (Coolie) community, with fixed rates determined by railway authorities. In such a scenario, allowing battery cars to transport luggage and displaying a flat rate of ₹30 per trip violates existing rules and government directives.
Protest Campaign from April 17
The organization announced a “demand fortnight” beginning April 17, during which protests and awareness campaigns will be conducted across the country. On April 24, representatives of the Morcha will march to the Rail Ministry in Delhi to submit a memorandum outlining their demands.
The meeting was chaired by National Coordinator Ram Suresh Yadav and conducted by Rahul Kumar.
Livelihood Concerns Raised
Leaders alleged that while railway authorities had earlier clarified that battery-operated vehicles were meant to assist elderly, disabled, and ailing passengers, recent developments indicate that these vehicles are increasingly being used for transporting luggage as well.
“This is a direct attack on the livelihood of thousands of porters,” the Morcha said, adding that the move appears to favor private contractors and corporate interests.
The organization demanded that if the government intends to replace porters with mechanized services, it must ensure proper rehabilitation, including absorption into railway jobs and provision of social security benefits.
Participation in National Conference
The Morcha also decided to participate in a national conference scheduled on April 24 at Rajendra Bhawan in Delhi, where issues related to foreign policy, trade, agriculture, employment, energy, and food security will be discussed.
Members expressed concerns over rising unemployment and inflation, stating that the common citizen is already under economic stress.
Widespread Participation
Several representatives from across the country participated in the meeting and shared their views, highlighting the growing challenges faced by the porter community.
The Rashtriya Coolie Morcha has appealed to political leaders, including the Prime Minister, Railway Minister, MPs, and party heads, to intervene in the matter and safeguard the interests of porters.
The issue is expected to gain momentum in the coming days as the protest campaign unfolds nationwide.
