MSRTC slaps dismissal notices on 230 staffers

MSRTC workers continue strike at Azad Maidan on Friday. Image for representational purpose only. Pic/Suresh Karkera

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation on Tuesday slapped dismissal notices on 230 striking employees who have been suspended. During the day, 21,644 employees reported to work, helping MSRTC operate 2,519 buses till 6 pm. An MSRTC spokesperson said that of their 250 bus depots, 122 are now functional.

Explaining the steps that will follow the dismissal notices, an official said the employees will be given 14 days to submit their explanation. If an employee does not turn up, he or she will be given three opportunities. Once the procedure is complete, the employee will be dismissed from service after following the rules.

On Monday, before the government's deadline for returning to work expired, 149 employees had resumed, said officials. The government is also examining stringent measures, including applying MESMA (Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act), on striking workers.

Maharashtra transport minister and MSRTC chairman Anil Parab had warned protesting workers of action under MESMA and other legislations. While the government has promised to revoke the suspension orders of those who rejoin, the response has been poor so far.

"Workers are being bullied at a personal level by those supporting the strike, leading to altercations and fights. Buses on duty are being damaged. The government has assured protection to working employees, but practically things are very difficult," an employee said.

The protests at Azad Maidan are continuing with sloganeering and speeches to keep up pressure on the state government. In Pune, private tourist bus associations have come forward to support the MSRTC through offering their buses to be operated from ST bus stands.