Why are Karnataka RTC staff on an indefinite strike?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The indefinite strike by Karnataka RTC staff has severely impacted bus services across the state, leaving many commuters stranded. Despite legal orders to continue operations, employee participation remains low as they demand salary revisions and better working conditions. The situation calls for urgent attention as the government scrambles to provide alternative transport solutions.
Key Takeaways
- RTC staff are on an indefinite strike due to salary demands.
- Bus services across Karnataka have been heavily disrupted.
- Private buses have been arranged as a temporary alternative.
- The government has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act.
- Commuters are facing significant challenges traveling.
Bengaluru, Aug 5 (NationPress) Following the decision of the employees' union of the state-owned transport corporations to initiate an indefinite strike, bus services throughout Karnataka faced significant disruptions on Tuesday, leading to substantial inconvenience for commuters.
The majority of RTC employees chose not to report for duty in solidarity with the strike, which is rooted in demands for salary revision and other essential benefits.
In spite of a High Court ruling against the strike and the state's enforcement of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), a mere 10 percent of staff showed up to work.
RTC operations were notably impacted across all district headquarters, particularly in Bengaluru and the northern regions of Karnataka. To alleviate the situation, authorities arranged for private buses as an alternative. However, women passengers were required to pay for these services, unlike the government-run buses that allow for free travel.
Many travelers arriving in Bengaluru from different states, who depended on RTC buses for onward journeys, found themselves stranded at the Majestic bus terminal. The operations of the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) also faced challenges. Nevertheless, officials managed to maintain bus services from Kempegowda International Airport (KIAL) to various city locations.
The Transport Department has advised IT companies to permit employees to work from home. Software professionals with access to cab services or Metro facilities were able to commute to their workplaces with minimal issues. Furthermore, instructions were issued to enhance the frequency of services provided by the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL).
On Tuesday (August 5) and Wednesday (August 6), the department is coordinating the deployment of 11,000 private buses, including 4,000 within Bengaluru city alone.
In the meantime, a bench led by the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court is slated to address the matter later today. Two high-level discussions chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha on Monday did not yield any results, with RTC representatives steadfast in their demands for salary adjustments and pending payments.
RTC employees are insisting on the immediate release of 38 months’ pending salaries, a salary revision effective from August 1, cessation of employee harassment, a halt to privatization, and the resolution of other associated issues.
Two prior rounds of negotiations have also failed to reach a consensus.
The RTC unions have announced that 1.15 lakh employees statewide will join the strike, as they received a copy of the High Court order later than expected.
RTC buses serve as the primary mode of transportation for commuters, linking urban areas with rural regions throughout Karnataka.
The Congress-led state government has implemented free travel for women under the 'Shakti' scheme, with the budget for this initiative increased from Rs 5,015 crore in 2024-25 to Rs 5,300 crore this year. However, the BJP and JD(S) have criticized the scheme, claiming that the Congress government is undermining the financial stability of RTCs for political gain. The state government has firmly denied these allegations, asserting that the scheme has empowered millions of women and will remain in effect.
Point of View
I recognize the complexities surrounding the RTC strike in Karnataka. It highlights the ongoing struggle for fair wages and working conditions amid pressing economic challenges. The situation poses significant implications not only for the employees and their livelihoods but also for the commuters who rely heavily on RTC services. It is imperative that both parties seek a resolution to ensure the continuity of essential transport services while addressing the legitimate concerns of the staff.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the indefinite strike by RTC staff?
The RTC staff initiated the strike to demand salary revisions and the release of pending payments, among other issues.
How has the strike affected bus services in Karnataka?
Bus services have been severely disrupted across the state, with many commuters stranded due to a significant reduction in available services.
What alternatives are being provided for commuters?
Authorities have arranged for private buses as a temporary solution, although women passengers must pay for these services.
What does the government say about the RTC strike?
The government has implemented the Essential Services Maintenance Act to counter the strike and is urging employees to return to work.
What is the future outlook for the RTC strike?
The situation is under review by the Karnataka High Court, and negotiations are ongoing to reach a resolution.
