Why Are CITU Members Protesting in Chennai Over Transport Staff Dues?
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Synopsis
In a growing demonstration of frustration, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has rallied in Chennai, demanding the State government address long-unsettled dues for transport workers. With ongoing sit-ins and escalating tensions, the resolution of this issue is crucial for both serving employees and retirees.
Key Takeaways
- Protests reflect deep worker frustration.
- Long-overdue dues and retirement benefits are central issues.
- Widespread sit-ins across Tamil Nadu.
- Demands include wage arrears and pension scheme restoration.
- Government response is crucial to prevent further disruptions.
Chennai, Sep 13 (NationPress) The Central Chennai district branch of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) organized a protest on Saturday in front of Raja Rathinam Stadium, Egmore, calling on the State government to address the ongoing 27-day protest by transport corporation workers and retired personnel.
Leading the demonstration, CITU State president A. Soundararajan emphasized that this agitation is not about new wage requests but rather about obtaining long-overdue arrears and retirement entitlements.
He highlighted that sit-in protests are occurring at 22 different locations throughout Tamil Nadu, showcasing the significant frustration felt by both current workers and pensioners.
Soundararajan urged the government to provide a thorough resolution before Deepavali to alleviate the concerns of both serving employees and retirees.
The critical demands include the immediate payment of wage arrears, the clearance of retirement benefits that have been pending for over two years, reinstatement of the old pension scheme for those hired after 2003, release of the much-awaited fifth step pension increment, medical insurance for retirees, and fulfillment of compassionate appointment claims.
Criticizing Transport Minister S.S. Sivasankar for his recent claim that Rs 1,100 crore was allocated for retirement benefits, Soundararajan contended that this amount was woefully insufficient given that the total dues surpass Rs 2,000 crore.
He remarked that the delays have placed considerable financial burdens on pensioners, especially with the rising prices of gold and property over the past two years.
Unless the government establishes a definitive timeline for resolving all outstanding issues, he warned that the protests would persist.
In the meantime, Minister Sivasankar had previously stated to reporters that discussions with the union were ongoing and measures were being taken to accelerate fund distribution for retirees.
He appealed to the federation to suspend the protests during the festive season, a time when public transport demand peaks. The protest saw the participation of several hundred workers and retirees, who displayed placards and voiced their grievances regarding the delays in settlement.
As the stalemate continues, commuters across Tamil Nadu are preparing for further disruptions as transport employees remain committed to their pressure campaign until their demands are fulfilled.
Point of View
The ongoing protests led by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) in Chennai highlight a pressing issue of financial justice for transport workers. The demands for overdue payments and retirement benefits reflect broader concerns regarding workers' rights and the adequacy of government support. It is imperative for the government to address these concerns swiftly to restore trust and stability in the workforce.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the CITU protests in Chennai?
The protests are primarily focused on demanding the settlement of long-overdue dues for transport workers and retirees, not new wage requests.
How many locations are involved in the ongoing protests?
Sit-in protests are taking place at 22 locations throughout Tamil Nadu, showcasing widespread dissatisfaction.
What are the key demands of the protestors?
Key demands include immediate wage arrears disbursal, clearance of retirement benefits, reinstatement of the old pension scheme, and medical insurance for retirees.
What did CITU President A. Soundararajan say about the government's financial allocations?
He criticized the government's claim of allocating Rs 1,100 crore for retirement benefits, stating it is grossly inadequate compared to the total dues exceeding Rs 2,000 crore.
What could happen if the government does not respond to the protests?
The protests are expected to continue until all pending issues are addressed, potentially leading to further disruptions in public transport.
