Patna: Drivers of the Dial-112 emergency service in Bihar took to the streets of Patna on Tuesday, marching from Gardanibagh to Kargil Chowk while waving the Indian tricolour and shouting slogans against the state government. The demonstrators, largely ex-servicemen, warned of a complete road blockade from Wednesday.
The drivers, who have been on strike for nine days, are demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and recognition as state employees. Chandan Kumar, the state president of the drivers’ organisation, said support was coming in from across Bihar, with ex-servicemen travelling from multiple districts to join the protest. “No ex-serviceman on duty as a Dial-112 driver will work from Wednesday,” he said.
Among the grievances, drivers highlighted that their initial recruitment in January 2022 promised a salary of Rs 25,000, which has since increased by only Rs 750. They also criticised deployment practices, noting that women drivers are forced to work 12-hour shifts, sometimes bringing small children to duty. Promised weekly leave, insurance, and relief from police stations have not been provided, the protestors claim.
The union outlined nine key demands, including the issuance of appointment letters and identity cards, transfer allowances, mutual transfer options, equal pay for equal work, recognition as state employees, a standardised pay scale, and the right to form their own organisation.
Since their reinstatement to make Dial-112 fully operational, 15 ex-servicemen have reportedly died while on duty, yet welfare support remains absent, the union said.
