Protests Ignite Over Punjab's Kilometer-Based Bus Scheme

The ongoing protests by contractual employees of Punjab's state-owned bus services against the kilometre-based bus scheme have escalated, with numerous union leaders detained. The protestors demand the release of detained leaders, cancellation of scheme tenders, and regularization of workers, amidst claims of private contractor favoritism.

The tension is escalating in Punjab as contractual employees of the state's bus services continue their protest against the kilometre-based bus scheme. Leaders of the PUNBUS Contract Workers Union have been vocal about their disapproval of police actions during these protests.

Sandeep Singh, Senior Vice President of the Union, alleged that several leaders, including Kulwant Singh and Raminder Singh, remain detained. The union is unyielding in its demand for the release of detainees and the cancellation of the kilometre-scheme tenders, deeming it an attempt to privatize state-run routes.

Amidst the unrest, government bus services are disrupted, leaving commuters to rely on private buses. Farmers' leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has also criticized the government's policy, lending his support to the protesters. The situation remains tense as the protests continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)