THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even after mid-August, KSRTC employees have not received even half their salary. The Finance Department has sanctioned Rs 30 crore but the amount has not reached KSRTC's account. The file regarding this has not moved from the Finance Department. It has been alleged that some officials are deliberately delaying the file.

INTUC and CITU have announced a strike on August 26 to protest against the salary delay. In this context today, Minister Antony Raju has called the organization leaders for a discussion. The transport department is looking for ways to clear July salaries ahead of Onam.

Employees fear that they may be denied bonus, advance and festival pay due to financial crisis. August salary may not be paid in advance considering Onam. July dues may be paid to pensioners before Onam. The government has indicated that the August pension and festival allowance should not be expected for the time being. With Finance Minister and Minister V Sivankutty participating in today's discussion, there may be a decision that will bring relief to the employees.

Today, the employees will take out a mourning march to the Secretariat under the leadership of BMS to protest against the delay in salary. The mourning procession is from in front of the chief office. The Chief Minister had promised to pay the salary on 5th of every month. When that did not happen, the salary was divided into two installments.