Key Facts
Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) employees, led by the HRTC Driver Union, have intensified their protest in Mandi. The gate meeting at Mandi Bus Stand entered its 14th day with demonstrations and sloganeering against the management and state government. The union has warned of a statewide bus strike if their demands are not met by June 24.
Details of the Protest
The agitation began on June 9 and has now spread across Himachal Pradesh. Deepak Raj Sharma, state chief advisor of the HRTC Driver Union, stated that the movement has received widespread support from employees during the state executive's tour of Himachal. He accused the management of acting dictatorially and claimed that the sudden transfer of provincial chief Man Singh to Chamba was an act of vengeance, reflecting the weakening position of the government and management.
Impact on Services
The union has postponed the proposed chakka jam (wheel jam) to avoid disrupting students appearing for the NEET exam. However, Deputy Chief Minister has called employees for talks on June 24. Sharma warned that if the meeting fails to reach an agreement on their demands, a statewide chakka jam will be enforced from midnight of June 24. He appealed to the public not to make any advance bus bookings for travel after June 24 to avoid inconvenience.
What Readers Should Know
- The protest is ongoing at Mandi Bus Stand since June 9.
- The union demands include resolution of pending issues and reversal of the transfer of provincial chief.
- Talks are scheduled for June 24; failure may lead to a complete halt of bus services from June 25.
- Passengers are advised to plan travel accordingly and avoid advance bookings for dates after June 24.
FAQ
Why are HRTC employees protesting in Mandi?
Employees are protesting against the management and government over pending demands, and the transfer of provincial chief Man Singh to Chamba, which they call retaliation.
When will the bus strike happen?
If demands are not met by June 24, a statewide chakka jam (wheel jam) will begin from midnight of June 24.
Has the strike date been changed?
Yes, the originally proposed date was postponed to avoid affecting students appearing for the NEET exam.
What should passengers do?
The union has advised the public not to make advance bus bookings for travel after June 24 to avoid inconvenience.