What Are the RTCs Demanding Before Their Strike in K'taka?
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Synopsis
As Karnataka's six state-owned RTCs prepare for an indefinite strike due to unmet demands, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's upcoming meetings with key stakeholders are crucial. With 1.15 lakh employees poised to halt operations, the implications for daily commuters could be significant. Will the government's response be adequate to prevent disruption?
Key Takeaways
- Indefinite strike announced by RTCs due to overdue salaries.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's meetings aim to resolve the situation.
- 1.15 lakh employees prepared to halt bus services.
- Concerns over the impact on public transportation.
- Government's 'Shakti' scheme continues amidst financial scrutiny.
Bengaluru, Aug 4 (NationPress) Serious concerns have emerged regarding the indefinite strike notice issued by the six state-run Road Transport Corporations (RTCs) in Karnataka, which is aimed at addressing their long-overdue demands.
The primary requests include the release of 38 months' overdue salaries, a revision of salaries, and the settlement of arrears.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to conduct two important meetings at Vidhana Soudha on Monday to discuss these issues. He will first engage with representatives from the Labour Organizations Joint Action Committee of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporations, followed by a meeting with members of the Federation of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation Organisations and other key stakeholders.
Union leaders of the RTC have already declared an indefinite strike commencing at midnight on Monday.
Staff have started distributing leaflets at bus stops of the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) across Bengaluru, urging commuters to support their cause.
They are calling for the immediate disbursement of their 38 months’ overdue salaries, a salary review effective from August 1, a stop to privatization, and other related demands.
Previous discussions on these matters have not yielded positive outcomes. A definitive decision is anticipated following the conclusion of Monday’s meetings with the Chief Minister.
According to RTC unions, 1.15 lakh employees from across the state are expected to participate in the strike, which is crucial for daily commuters who rely on RTC buses for connectivity between urban and rural areas in Karnataka.
The Congress-led state government has initiated free travel for women under the 'Shakti' scheme, increasing the budget for this initiative from Rs 5,015 crore in 2024–25 to Rs 5,300 crore this fiscal year.
However, the BJP and JD(S) parties have accused the state government of undermining the financial stability of RTCs for electoral advantage.
In response, the CM Siddaramaiah government has rejected these claims, emphasizing that the scheme has empowered millions of women and will remain intact.
Joint Action Committee Chairman Ananth Subbarao cautioned on Sunday that the transport workers are not striking on August 4 due to the visit of Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Instead, all 1.15 lakh employees will refrain from work, halting bus services.
He insisted that the government must immediately release the 38 months of pending arrears. "We are effectively managing the 'Shakti' scheme. However, the Siddaramaiah government has betrayed the trust of transport employees," Subbarao stated.
He criticized the government's approach, stating, "The Chief Minister's last-minute meeting call is unacceptable. Threats of implementing the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) and withholding salaries are not tolerable. If the CM reiterates previous empty promises in the meeting, we will not comply."
Point of View
We recognize the significant implications of the RTCs’ impending strike on public transportation in Karnataka. This situation underscores the importance of addressing employee grievances while ensuring that commuter services remain uninterrupted. We advocate for a balanced approach that prioritizes both employee rights and the needs of the public.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main demands of the RTC employees?
The RTC employees are demanding the release of 38 months' pending salaries, a salary revision effective from August 1, and a halt to privatization.
When is the strike scheduled to begin?
The indefinite strike is set to commence at midnight on Monday.
How many employees will participate in the strike?
Approximately 1.15 lakh employees across the state will take part in the strike.
What is the government’s response to the strike?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is holding meetings with stakeholders to discuss the demands and find a resolution.
What is the 'Shakti' scheme?
The 'Shakti' scheme allows free travel for women in Karnataka, with its budget significantly increased this fiscal year.
