New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday met auto drivers in Delhi and interacted with them over issues linked to rising inflation, falling income and daily livelihood pressures.
The meeting took place at Todarmal Park near Bengali Market, where Gandhi sat with a group of auto drivers, listened to their concerns and shared a simple meal with them. The interaction was seen as part of his wider public outreach to understand the problems faced by working class citizens.
During the discussion, the drivers raised concerns over slow business, reduced daily earnings and the increasing cost of essential items. They also spoke about the impact of rising gas prices on their household budgets and work related expenses. According to the report, auto driver Ramesh Prasad said he informed Gandhi about the everyday difficulties faced by drivers and how their earnings had declined compared to earlier.
Another driver, Arinder Kumar Shah, reportedly told Gandhi that inflation had made life difficult for families. He said the rising cost of gas and essential goods had made it harder to manage household expenses.
Gandhi also asked the drivers about their children’s education, family situation and daily income. During the meeting, the group had a simple meal that included roti, dal and vegetable curry. He was later seen wearing an auto driver’s uniform and interacting with people present at the spot. He also took selfies with children after the meeting.
According to the drivers, Gandhi listened to them patiently and assured them that he would raise their issues in Parliament before Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The interaction came amid growing concerns among transport workers in Delhi NCR over rising operational costs, fuel and CNG prices, maintenance expenses and stagnant income. Recent transport union protests in the region have also highlighted the financial pressure being faced by drivers and commercial vehicle operators.
Politically, Gandhi’s visit is likely to be viewed as another attempt by the Congress leader to connect directly with ordinary citizens and bring livelihood issues into national debate. For the auto drivers, however, the main concern remains immediate relief from inflation and a more stable income in a difficult economic environment.