Mon Nov 25 16:13:15 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka State Facing Statewide Transport Strike on December 31st

**Bengaluru, November 25, 2024** – A statewide strike by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and other transport unions is planned for December 31st, threatening major disruptions to public transport across Karnataka. The strike, organized by the KSRTC Staff and Workers’ Federation and the Joint Action Committee (JAC), demands the state government address long-standing issues including unpaid arrears and gratuity payments totaling ₹2,149.29 crores (₹1,750 crores in arrears and ₹399.29 crores in gratuity).

Union leaders express deep frustration over unfulfilled promises from the Chief Minister and Transport Minister, citing assurances of a salary hike and arrears payment that have yet to materialize. H.V. Anantha Subba Rao, President of the KSRTC Staff and Workers Federation, stated the strike is a direct result of government inaction and will continue until demands are met. A preliminary protest, “Belagavi Chalo,” is planned for December 9th to further pressure the government during assembly sessions.

The impending strike raises concerns for commuters and employees alike. One BMTC employee highlighted the significant financial hardship caused by the unpaid arrears, emphasizing the urgent need for the government to release 38 months of outstanding payments. While a similar protest in January 2023 had limited impact, the scale and determination of the upcoming action suggest a far more significant disruption to public transportation is likely.

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