Bhubaneswar, Jul 11: State Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena on Friday alleged that the cease-work strike by the Odisha Drivers' Mahasangha (drivers' association) has become embroiled in party politics, following the association president's appeal to the protestors not to halt vehicles heading to Rahul Gandhi's 'Save the Constitution' rally in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Writing on his X handle on Friday, Jena said, "There is no need for further protests, as the government, in the interest of drivers, has already listened to and discussed implementing all the demands of the protesting drivers' association."

"Politics emerged in the protest with the strike being postponed by a day in support of the Congress rally scheduled for July 11," he further added.

He appealed to the leaders of the association not to mislead innocent, honest drivers in the name of the movement.

"I appeal to my fellow drivers to withdraw from the protest," urged Jena.

The cease-work strike by drivers across the state entered its fourth day on Friday.

(IANS)

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