DDADU Issues Crackdown on Proxy Display Cards and Reckless Auto Driving

The Dimapur District Auto Drivers’ Union (DDADU) has issued a stern warning to auto-rickshaw operators against fraudulent practices, traffic violations, passenger overloading, and charging rates above union-prescribed fares. Addressing a press conference, DDADU President Tito Yepthomi highlighted growing concerns over drivers using duplicate or proxy display cards, revealing that in multiple cases, single display cards were illegally shared among up to four separate drivers. Urging law enforcement authorities to inspect and penalize such fraudulent duplication, Yepthomi reminded auto owners that valid identification cards must be prominently affixed to their vehicles and that drivers must wear mandatory prescribed uniforms regardless of local or non-local status. The union also addressed increasing public grievances regarding rash driving, line-breaking, and sudden dangerous turns to pick up passengers, announcing joint spot-checks with police at strategic traffic points where non-compliant drivers will face penalties without union intervention. In terms of passenger safety, drivers are instructed to strictly observe capacity limits of no more than three passengers for petrol auto-rickshaws while avoiding hazardous overloading on diesel units. Furthermore, Yepthomi apologized for instances of overcharging, warning that drivers violating fixed fare charts will face disciplinary action and reminding aggrieved commuters to report violations using numbers displayed at designated parking areas. Taking a zero-tolerance stance on substance abuse, the union pledged to seize vehicles driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs and hand offenders directly over to law enforcement. To address broader urban congestion, DDADU appealed to the Deputy Commissioner and District Transport Officer to verify and limit assurance certificates given the rising vehicular volume. Finally, clarifying that union driver collections remain entirely voluntary to cover staff salaries and emergency assistance, Yepthomi reaffirmed DDADU’s commitment to supporting drivers affected by a recent Dimapur fire incident by coordinating with administrative authorities on documentation and Inner Line Permits.