Delegation Submits Memorandum to RTO Officer Archana Gaikwad Over Alleged Corruption at Baramati RTO; Proposed Strike Called Off After Assurance of Action

Pune (May 20): A joint delegation representing the Multipurpose Transport Driver-Owner Mathadi Mandal, Nirbhay Maharashtra Party, and several other allied organizations submitted a formal memorandum to Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Archana Gaikwad regarding allegations of corruption, misconduct by officials, and inconvenience caused to drivers and vehicle owners at the Baramati RTO office.

The delegation was led by Dr. H.G. Padule, President of the Shikhar Transport Driver-Owner Federation of India. The meeting took place at the Pune RTO office, where representatives voiced their grievances and demanded immediate corrective action to ensure fair and transparent operations at the Baramati Regional Transport Office.

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Issues Raised in the Memorandum

During the interaction with RTO Archana Gaikwad, the delegation outlined a number of pressing issues faced by drivers and transport operators, including:

• Alleged corruption and irregularities in day-to-day administrative procedures at Baramati RTO
• Harassment and misconduct by certain officials towards drivers and transporters
• Long delays and inefficiencies causing operational losses and emotional distress for vehicle owners
• The need for stricter monitoring and accountability mechanisms within the department

Dr. Padule and the other representatives expressed their deep concern over the growing dissatisfaction among transport workers, emphasizing that the current situation was not just causing professional setbacks but also affecting the dignity and mental well-being of the workers involved.

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Prominent Leaders and Organizations in Attendance

Several prominent leaders from Nirbhay Maharashtra Party and affiliated transport unions were present during the delegation, including:

• Prashant Gholap – Pune City President, Nirbhay Maharashtra Party
• Vijay Taware – Deputy City President
• Sangram Patil – Pimpri-Chinchwad District President
• Ashutosh Yerelu, Shashikant Thorat, Dattatray Zhende, Sachin Rathod, and Sunita Nimbalkar – Key members and office-bearers

Numerous activists, party workers, and supporters also joined in solidarity, demonstrating the gravity of the issue and the support behind the movement.

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RTO Archana Gaikwad Assures Prompt Action

Responding to the memorandum, RTO Archana Gaikwad assured the delegation that appropriate action would be taken after verifying the complaints raised. She emphasized that the transport department was committed to maintaining transparency and integrity, and welcomed public feedback and cooperation to improve the functioning of the office.

She also appealed to the organizations to call off their proposed protest or hunger strike, requesting time for the department to look into the matter and take necessary steps.

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Strike Called Off Following Assurance

Taking note of the RTO officer’s assurance and the willingness of the department to act on the concerns raised, the transport unions decided to suspend their planned strike. Dr. Padule acknowledged the proactive response by the administration and expressed hope that the promised action would lead to long-term systemic reforms and relief for drivers and transport operators.

He further stated that the organizations would continue to monitor developments and, if required, would resume agitation through democratic means to safeguard the interests of the transport community.