Bengaluru: Even as the decision of the KSRTC employees to go on indefinite stir has paralysed the state transport system, the Chief Minister has clarified on Monday that he would not resort to slamming Essential Services Maintenance Act.
Speaking to reporters at his official residence ‘Krishna’, Siddaramaiah said that while ESMA is not on cards, the government would also make it very clear that there is no question of budging down to the demands of the KSRTC staff, who have been pressing for 35 per cent hike in pay.
“The public transport sector in the state is already reeling under losses and with the proposed 10 per cent hike the state exchequer will face the added burden of Rs 1,550 cr. If we budge down to the demanded 35 per cent it will be detrimental to the KSRTC,” said the CM adding that 10 per cent is a huge hike and no governments in the past have given this kind of a hike. He asked the KSRTC employees to agree with what the government is offering and return to work.
Employee report to duty fearing ESMA
Meanwhile, in Koppala division several employees reported to duty fearing that the government would slam ESMA. It is said that their seniors had directed them to report to work failing which action would be taken against them under ESMA.
