Auto booking app Namma Yatri has refuted recent claims suggesting a split with the Bengaluru-based auto union ARDU (Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union). Denying a Moneycontrol story that alleged a break in ties over pricing and promotions-related issues, Namma Yatri stated that there have been no changes in its operations, emphasizing that it has always been union-agnostic.
ARDU also dismissed the news of severing ties with Namma Yatri, expressing surprise at the rumors and announcing plans to meet with the company to understand the source of the misinformation. An ARDU representative highlighted that Namma Yatri’s app is for the welfare of auto drivers, and no unions are directly involved. The union affirmed its ongoing support for Namma Yatri.
Moneycontrol’s report claimed that ARDU wanted Namma Yatri to introduce a flat Rs 40 fee for a two-kilometer radius between metro stations and residences and offices, a request the auto booking app allegedly did not entertain. The ARDU spokesperson clarified that Namma Yatri engaged in detailed discussions to find a mutually agreeable price point, emphasizing that the broader consensus among drivers is that Namma Yatri is more driver-friendly, particularly regarding commissions.
Namma Yatri clarified that it is not affiliated with any union and operates as a driver community-driven initiative, prioritizing community welfare over individual union interests. According to the company, 80% of its drivers are not associated with any unions, while only 20% have affiliations. Additionally, Namma Yatri’s public dashboard revealed an increase in driver registrations on the app following the Moneycontrol story, with a total of 1.46 lakh drivers currently on the platform.
