Ten days ago, when a police jeep stopped at their stand in Santhome, a frisson of fear swept through the auto drivers. But, when the senior policeman stepped out and extended a congratulatory hand to them, elation replaced fear.
The auto stand was being recognised for the strict rules it had imposed on its members and practising this for 25 long years.
When any of its members display undisciplined behaviour, Ambedhkar auto stand, located at 3rd Trust Link Street in Santhome, does not pull the punches.
“If anyone is found to be drunk while on duty, the driver is debarred from the auto stand for a week and a fine of ₹ 500 is imposed on him. Also, even during off days, drivers under the influence of alcohol are not allowed to come anywhere near the stand. The driver has to wait at least half a kilometre away from the stand if he wants to meet any of us,” says William, an auto driver who joined the stand six years ago.
Ambedhkar auto stand, established by head auto driver Mani a quarter of a century ago, has 15 auto drivers, and most of them are residents of Pattinapakkam. Stand members make it a point to wear khaki uniform while on duty.
“Anyone who is not wearing the uniform will have to shell out a fine of Rs. 100. Even on the day of my wedding anniversary, I had to be in uniform,” Casper smiles, narrating the incident.
He is with the stand for the last 12 years.
The members of the auto stand meet once a month. While it is customary for auto stands to collect money from its members towards organising festivals like Ayudha Pooja, this stand does the unusual thing of helping members pay their dues.
“Sometimes, if someone is unable to pay the due for his auto he can take the required amount from the fund and return it later. At our meeting, we try to sort out interpersonal problems members may be facing. If two auto drivers have a problem, we help them sort it out amicably,” adds William.
A few years ago, two auto drivers were involved in a drunken brawl that had to be finally solved at a police station. To avoid such situations, new members are clearly briefed about the rules and those who refuse to comply with them are asked to leave the stand, says Casper.
