Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj
Ahead of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, The Quint spoke to three women who drive ‘pink autos’ on the streets of Ranchi, and their stories stood as examples for women in India in general.
These women have their own expectations and dreams and constantly work for the same. They drive auto rickshaws to earn their living. But fate hasn’t been fair to them. To get to know the challenges they face, The Quint decided to go for a ride with them.
“When everybody blocked my way, my husband showed me the path. I have been driving auto rickshaws since my daughter was two months old. I used to put her to sleep in the backseat. Passengers warned me that she might get hurt. I bought a kangaroo bag, carried her in the bag and rode the auto.”Heera Devi, Auto Rickshaw Driver
Heera Devi also shares her opinions about the current Jharkhand government.
“We supported the BJP and thought of continuing to give them our support, but the government did nothing for us. Whenever a VIP comes, we are the first ones to be removed. We make these VIPs and we’re the ones who are removed.”Heera Devi, Auto Rickshaw Driver
One of the biggest challenges for these women?
Men.
“Men harass us on streets. They scare us, threaten us and even abuse us.”Rameela Da, Auto Rickshaw Driver
Despite facing all odds, these women have a will power to stand tall on their feet.
“I have an I.Com degree. Even though I qualified the exam to study nursing, I couldn’t take admission because I did not have money for it. I didn’t get my widow pension, ration card or government housing. If we cast our vote, then it will be NOTA. The government did nothing for us.”Reena, Auto Rickshaw Driver
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