Bhubaneswar Cab Protest Turns Violent: 113 Arrested

Bhubaneswar: Tension gripped the city on Wednesday as a protest by app‑based cab and auto drivers spiralled into violent clashes at Master Canteen and Station Square.

Police arrested 113 protesters, released 60 on bonds, and seized 354 vehicles linked to the unrest.

The agitation, driven by demands for regulated fares, compensation for cancellations, and restrictions on new vehicle registrations, quickly turned chaotic.

Demonstrators allegedly blocked roads, pelted stones at police, and vandalised 10 Ama buses and two police vehicles.

Law enforcement responded with baton charges and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Several officers, including Capital PS Inspector‑in‑Charge Radhakanta Sahu, sustained injuries.

Seven FIRs were registered at Kharavela Nagar police station, including complaints from bus staff and police personnel.

Authorities have warned of strict legal action against those found guilty of disrupting public order.