The Karnataka High Court has restrained transport unions from proceeding with their planned strike scheduled for tomorrow. The court directed authorities to facilitate a meeting between representatives of the unions and the Transport Minister or the Chief Minister to resolve the issues.
Court's Intervention
Justice Krishna S. Dixit issued the interim order while hearing a petition filed by the state government. The court observed that any strike by public transport employees would cause immense hardship to the public and disrupt essential services.
Government's Appeal
The state government had approached the High Court seeking to prevent the strike, arguing that it was illegal as the unions had not adhered to the mandatory 14-day notice period under the Industrial Disputes Act. The government also highlighted that the strike would affect students, office-goers, and patients who rely on KSRTC buses.
Union's Stand
The transport unions, however, maintained that their demands regarding wage revision and regularization of contract workers had not been addressed despite several rounds of talks. They argued that the strike was a last resort to press for their demands.
Next Steps
The court has directed the authorities to hold a conciliatory meeting within two days and submit a report. The matter will be heard again on May 22. Until then, the unions have been restrained from going on strike.
