Overview
- Private bus operators began an indefinite hunger strike in front of the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, with federation leaders K.K. Thomas and Sharanya Manoj starting the fast at 10 a.m.
- Their core demands include implementation of the Padmakumar Commission recommendations, an increase in student and base fares, timely renewal of long‑distance permits beyond 140 km, and unobstructed services from the Regional Transport Office.
- Operators say the Priyadarshini free travel scheme shifted many women passengers to KSRTC routes and cut private ridership, a trend they say has been worsened by an ₹8‑per‑litre diesel price rise and higher spare‑parts costs.
- Reports conflict over who inaugurated the protest, with some coverage naming Rijas A. J. and an earlier notice saying MLA M. Rahmathulla, but all sources agree the fast is underway and being led by the federation officers.
- Leaders warn the strike will continue until demands are met and some groups have threatened full service suspension from November 3 if the government does not take action, a move that could sharply disrupt travel and pressure officials to respond.