Jaipur: Private bus operators have given the transport department three days to explain the alleged double taxation on 24-hour special permits, warning of protests and a possible strike after Diwali if the issue remains unresolved.Kailash Chandra Sharma, president of Private Bus Operators Association, Stage Carriage, Jaipur, said the department had allegedly been collecting double tax for two months despite repeated representations. Operators claim they are being charged for two days even though their permits are valid for 24 hours. They have demanded a refund or adjustment of the excess amount.Sharma said the association would approach the transport commissioner if the department failed to respond. Operators are avoiding a strike during Diwali, their peak business season, but may protest after the festival.He also flagged the high cost of vehicle location tracking devices (VLTDs), alleging that companies were quoting Rs 10,000-15,000 per vehicle despite a Rs 5,000 ceiling discussed at a transport ministry meeting in July 2026.Sharma urged the ministry to intervene, warning that operators would protest against companies if prices were not reduced. He said they would not pay more than Rs 5,000 per device.Additional Transport Commissioner OP Bunkar said he was unaware of the issue and declined further comment.
