Tensions continued to escalate as some drivers on Ola and Uber in Telangana State represented by taxi unions declared a five-day strike against low earnings, reports Business Standard. The strike was called by the Telangana Cab Drivers and Owners Association (TCDOA), Telangana Cabs Association (TCA) and the Telangana State Cabs and Bus Operators Association (TSCBOA) which claim to represent over 1 lakh drivers in the state. The drivers' demands included clearing outstanding dues and providing a valid reason for suspending drivers. The also wanted the companies to scrap the star-rating system and remove the mandatory three-trip compliance for incentives during surge hours, as indicated by this India Today report. A Deccan Chronicle report pointed that drivers may extend the strike till Sunday. A spokespeprson for Ola declined to comment on the issue and the demands of the drivers. The spokesperson added that the issue is developing and is in conversation with drivers. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Uber sent a statement said that a few people have threatened drivers who have chosen to continue driving and damaged vehicles in the state. "We condemn the forceful disruption to our services in Hyderabad by a small group of people who have threatened drivers and damaged vehicles, inconveniencing riders and preventing people from earning a livelihood. We remain committed to serving the city, and call upon authorities to ensure safety and continued operation of our services so that we can keep Hyderabad moving," the statement read. Uber also sent messages to customers during the entire period saying…
