MARGAO
The All Goa Drivers Union has filed a complaint with the Colva police over harassment and illegal obstruction by local unauthorised taxi stand operators.
The Union said that some illegal taxi stand operators in the Colva area are repeatedly stopping union taxis, forcing drivers to show “booking letters”, preventing them from picking up passengers legally, and threatening or harassing drivers. This is creating disturbances and law-and-order problems.
“As per Goa Transport Department rules, any driver with a valid taxi badge and permit can pick up passengers anywhere in Goa if the booking is received via phone or online. However, these unauthorised operators are unlawfully interfering with our drivers’ legal rights,” the complaint stated.
The Union also said that when police are called, some officers insist on seeing “booking letters” from drivers, which is not legally required. This creates confusion and indirectly supports the illegal restrictions.
The Union has demanded strict action against the unauthorised taxi stand operators, clear instructions to police not to ask for booking letters unnecessarily, and protection for union drivers from threats and obstruction.
