In a move that could significantly impact Pongal festivities, major transport unions in Tamil Nadu have declared an indefinite strike set to commence from 9 January 2024. The announcement follows the failure of tripartite talks held between the state government, Labour Welfare Department, and the transport unions.
The unions, representing a substantial portion of the state’s transport workers, have articulated six crucial demands. These include a call for improved wages under the 15th wage revision agreement, the filling of vacant driver and conductor positions, financial aid for all eight state-run transport corporations, and the prompt release of pending dearness allowances (DA) for pensioners.
Despite negotiation, the talks concluded without reaching a compromise. Consequently, the transport union executives have confirmed the commencement of the strike on January 9. Notable unions such as CITU, AITUC, and HMS have pledged their participation,
The failure of the tripartite discussions, held between the labour department, the transport department, and trade union leaders, has exacerbated the looming crisis.
Addressing the media after the meeting, CITU leader Soundarrajan expressed “we are not satisfied with the negotiation; had not received any satisfactory resolution. Now, with the collective participation of all unions, we find ourselves with no alternative but to embark on an indefinite strike. We had stressed the need for the government to take tangible measures before Pongal, specifically addressing the pending dearness allowance for retired employees. Unfortunately, our call for justice on this matter before Pongal has gone unanswered, leading us to the unanimous decision, on behalf of all trade unions, to initiate an indefinite strike starting 9th January”
As the strike deadline approaches, the state braces for potential disruptions in bus services, raising concerns among the public and authorities alike. The situation remains fluid, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments in the lead-up to the scheduled strike.
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