Controversy Erupts in Kerala as Authorities Hinder a Bus Service

A controversial saga of dispute between a bus owner and state authorities has hit the headlines in Kerala, garnering huge public attention. It all started when Robin Motors, owned by Girish, launched its service from Pathanamthitta to Coimbatore, defying the state motor vehicles department (MVD)”s order. MVD argues that being a contract carriage with an All India Tourist Permit (AITP), the Robin Motors can only operate from one point to another based on prior booking. But the Robin Motors bus has attempted to pick up passengers enroute, which is a violation of the rules.

Despite warnings, the owner of Robin Motors launched its service from Pathanamthitta to Coimbatore on Saturday. As a retaliatory measure, the RTO stopped the bus at four places and imposed a fine of Rs. 37,000.

However, Girish decided to pursue the journey, and it reached the destination at 6 pm, around six hours behind schedule. However, for that obstinacy, he had to pay a heavy fine of Rs. 74,410 for releasing the bus being retained by Tamil Nadu MVD at Chavadi check post.

Determined, Girish argues that he has received a favorable order from the Kerala High Court to conduct the service. He also said that the MVD has not received any directive from the High Court to stop the bus. He has decided to resume the service until the court allows him to do so.

Moreover, he would present the penalty documents in front of the court as evidence of contempt of court. However, the state road transportation has allowed a low-floor bus to service ahead of Robin Motors to hinder its service. Speaking to reporters in Kasaragod, Transport Minister Antony Raju said that by conducting the bus service, Girish is trying to undermine the law of order, and the government will take stringent action against such violations.

However, Robin Motors and Girish have garnered huge public support, receiving garlands and welcome notes enroute to Coimbatore.