Bharat Rashtra Samithi Working President K.T. Rama Rao on Saturday condemned the unlawful detentions of numerous auto drivers and union leaders across the state.

Rama Rao called the action of the Congress government outrageous and suppressive. These detentions commenced on January 2, following a call from the Telangana Auto Rickshaw Drivers’ Joint Action Committee (JAC) to stage a siege of the State Assembly on January 3. The objective of the protest was to demand the prompt fulfillment of electoral commitments made by the Congress party to auto drivers.

He criticised the state government for holding auto drivers and leaders in various police stations statewide without valid reasons, alleging that the government aims to stifle dissent regarding its failure to uphold its pledges. The BRS Working President pointed out that during the electoral campaign, the Congress party had assured unwavering support for auto drivers; however, they have subsequently engaged in "repression and arrests" when confronted with demands for accountability.

He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained union leaders and drivers. Rama Rao also urged the government to provide a definitive statement in the Assembly concerning the implementation of the promised benefits, as requested by the auto drivers.