KOCHI: The Kerala government on Thursday informed the High Court that it has sanctioned Rs 140 crore to KSRTC to pay two months' pension arrears and it will be distributed by the 18th of this month. Chief Secretary VP Joy, who appeared online, conveyed that the government was taking all measures to ensure the benefits of the employees. Justice Devan Ramachandran adjourned the petition for hearing on the 22nd of next month. The court directed the government to clarify what steps it was taking to resolve the issues.

At the same time, the court expressed its displeasure over the fact that the chief secretary appeared online despite the order to appear in person. Justice Devan Ramachandran told the Chief Secretary that there was a government lawyer to argue.

Thiruvananthapuram Vakkom native K Ashok Kumar filed the contempt of court petition alleging that KSRTC is not following the High Court's directive to pay pension on time.