Jammu, October 31, 2025: The Jammu and Kashmir unit of Shiv Sena (UBT) has sharply criticized the Jammu administration’s newly imposed regional restrictions on e-rickshaws. The party called for an immediate rollback of the zonal system, warning it threatens the livelihoods of local drivers and their families.

Freedom to Earn at Stake

At a press conference held today at the party’s state central office, state president Manish Sahni expressed strong disapproval of the restrictions:

“Gairon pe karam apanon pe sitam is being imposed. Bangladeshis and outsiders have free rein to settle here and monopolize jobs, but locals are barred from coming to Jammu to earn their livelihood. Jammu has been turned into a laboratory for such tyrannical decrees, unlike Srinagar or other Kashmir districts.”

Zoning Harms Livelihoods

Sahni detailed that for many poor and ordinary people, e-rickshaws represent a vital, low-investment means to earn a living. This decision to divide Jammu into strict zones severely limits their operational areas, therefore harming their earnings. Hundreds of families, particularly young workers relying exclusively on this trade, face significant economic impact.

He warned, “This will lead to monopolies of black and yellow autos and arbitrariness, hurting passenger convenience and local economies.”

Call for Administration Encouragement

In the current challenging times of unemployment and inflation, Sahni urged the administration to encourage all forms of employment. He issued a strong warning: If the administration attempts to break the economic backbone of the local people, Shiv Sainiks will be forced to take to the streets in protest.

Support and Presence

Alongside Sahni, leaders Vikas Bakshi, Raju Kapoor, Aditya Mahajan, Vinod Verma, Dewraj, and Jasbir Singh were present, endorsing the call for urgent rescinding of the restrictions.