Amravati Assembly Rally: Lokesh Calls for Women’s Dignity While Rolling Out Auto Driver Welfare Scheme
In Amravati on Saturday, Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh launched a targeted welfare scheme for auto rickshaw drivers. The event, framed by calls to improve public service and gender respect, saw Lokesh stressing that every sector of society should uphold the dignity of women. He noted that the conversation around autos goes beyond fare collections and routes, touching cultural attitudes and daily interactions on the road.
Lokesh reminded the audience that even prominent film personalities who took up driving roles in their early days—an anecdote he used to connect with auto drivers and riders alike—serve as proof that opportunity and responsibility come with accountability. He urged drivers and the public not to propagate messages that demean women or reinforce stereotypes. Rather, he urged a culture where respect for women is a norm, not a punchline.
As part of his broader message, Lokesh discussed common street-level experiences, including slogans and quotes seen on the backs of auto rickshaws. He cautioned against stories that degrade women or propagate negativity—emphasizing instead that children should be taught responsibility and the importance of respecting every individual, regardless of gender. This, he argued, is fundamental to building a safe and inclusive urban space where auto drivers and riders feel valued and protected.
The Auto Driver Welfare Scheme: What It Aims to Do
The scheme, announced during the same event, is designed to bolster the livelihoods of roughly three lakh auto drivers. Lokesh stated that the government would stand by these workers through better service frameworks, safety measures, and direct financial support. In a gesture tied to the festival season, he announced that eligible drivers would see an immediate transfer of Rs 15,000 into their bank accounts within the Dusara period, underscoring the administration’s intent to deliver timely relief during times of high expenditure for families dependent on daily earnings.
Beyond direct financial assistance, the program envisions establishing more driver-friendly infrastructure, including secured charging points and safer waiting areas, to reduce the risk of accidents and to ensure reliable service for commuters. Lokesh highlighted that the government is committed to enabling a “double engine” governance model—where strong leadership at the state level is complemented by decisive implementation at the ground level—to deliver measurable improvements in everyday transport for residents.
Addressing Misconduct and Building Trust
In his remarks, Lokesh drew attention to incidents in which phrases or actions associated with auto drivers or the broader transport ecosystem could undermine women’s dignity. He asserted that politicians and administrators alike must model respectful behavior and hold public conversations that do not belittle or harass women. He also touched on accountability, noting past practices of politically motivated or bureaucratic inertia, and contrasting them with a more inclusive, service-oriented approach under the current administration.
The minister’s broader aim was to reassure both drivers and passengers that the state is listening. By facilitating financial stability for drivers and promoting respectful conduct, the government hopes to foster a more professional, customer-friendly auto sector. Lokesh reiterated that the frontline service providers—auto drivers—deserve respect, fair treatment, and the tools to work safely and efficiently.
What This Means for Citizens
For residents, the scheme promises improved reliability in city transport, with a focus on safety, dignity, and accountability. The disbursement of funds during the Dusara period is framed as a practical step to ease immediate financial pressures, particularly for families that rely on daily earnings. As services improve, commuters can expect a more consistent and respectful experience on the streets, while drivers gain access to resources that support safer, more sustainable operations.
Lokesh concluded by urging every stakeholder to champion women’s dignity, both in public discourse and on the road. He pointed to the administration’s public persona—where leaders meet citizens as equals—as a signal that governance is closer to the people than ever before. With the auto driver welfare scheme as a cornerstone, the government hopes to translate political intent into tangible, positive outcomes for thousands of workers and the communities they serve.
