KSRTC strike cannot be justified, govt likely consider declaring KSRTC as essential service: Antony Raju

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Transport Minister Antony Raju has said that the strike by KSRTC employees cannot be justified. He also said that the government might consider declaring KSRTC as an essential service in order to provide uninterrupted service to the public.

"This government had provided salaries and benefits to employees even when there was no revenue. It spends about Rs 80 crore every month on salaries. The trade unions are now demanding a pay revision that will bring about an additional liability of Rs 30 crore," the minister said.

"The unions have announced a strike demanding a pay rise when a large section of the population is suffering without even receiving a monthly salary. The government was not even given 30 hours to negotiate. There is no justification for this strike. This is unacceptable. If the trade unions decide to continue this trend, the government will frame a law," he added.

"The government may also consider declaring KSRTC as an essential service. The strike is unnecessary amid the reopening of schools the Sabarimala season has just begun. Why should the people suffer because of the dispute between the union and the management?" he asked.