The KSRTC pensioners launched an indefinite strike in front of the KSRTC office at East Fort from Monday, demanding payment of pension arrears.
It has been four months since the retired staff received any pension. KSRTC requires Rs 65 crore to pay the monthly pension to the nearly 40,000 retired staff. Around 50 retried staff from KSRTC assembled in front of the KSRTC chief office from the morning hours on Monday. Even the assurance from the transport minister Thomas Chandy that pension will be given within a week has not convinced the agitators to withdrew the protest.
Video – Manorama News
“We have lost trust in anyone and have left with no other option than to protest. Many among us are struggling to buy medicines and now with age-related aliments it is difficult for us to find another job,” said Ashok Kumar, a retired ATO.
KSRTC requires Rs 85 crore to pay the salaries due for July. “Delay in payment of pension is equal to torturing them. It is pathetic that they have to conduct protest every month to receive salary and pension,” said Thampanoor Ravi, president, Transport Democratic Federation.
