Telangana RTC Workers Announce Statewide Strike from February 9
The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) workers have announced a statewide strike starting February 9. Union leaders are frustrated by the government’s failure to address long-pending issues such as pay scale revisions and unpaid dues, forcing them to take this step.
On Monday, the RTC workers’ union submitted a strike notice to the corporation’s Executive Director, Munisekhar, at Bus Bhavan. The notice highlighted several unresolved issues and demanded the merger of RTC employees with the government, implementation of two Pay Revision Commissions (PRCs), and other pending demands.
The TGSRTC Joint Action Committee (JAC) outlined 21 demands in their notice. They urged the government to address the problems faced by employees and provide immediate solutions to prevent the strike.
This strike marks the first major action by RTC unions in five years. According to the JAC, their dissatisfaction stems from the government’s inaction over the last 14 months. Union leaders warned that if the demands are not met, the strike will proceed as planned.
A major concern for the workers is the growing fear of privatisation within the RTC. Rumors about privatisation have created anxiety among employees about potential job losses. The unions have accused the government of breaking promises made during the election campaign, such as merging RTC workers with the government, lifting restrictions on trade unions, and revising wages.
E. Venkanna, the chairman of the JAC, stressed the urgent need for the RTC to be merged with the government. He also called for an immediate revision of salaries and demanded the settlement of pending Provident Fund (PF) and Credit Cooperative Society (CCS) dues.
Another important demand involves securing the jobs of drivers who bought RTC buses. The introduction of electric buses, which are reportedly managed by private operators, is putting thousands of these drivers’ jobs at risk.
The JAC also pointed out that retired RTC workers are still awaiting their unpaid arrears, adjusted pay scales, and other benefits. The unions have given the government a deadline to respond to their demands, warning that a statewide strike will take place if no action is taken.
