Punjab Transport Workers Persist in Protests Despite Ministerial Promises

Punjab's state-run bus service employees are continuing their protests despite a meeting with the transport minister, demanding the release of detained workers and the reinstatement of those suspended. The disputes arose over the kilometre-based bus scheme, which threatens job security by introducing private operators.

The stand-off between Punjab's road transport workers and the state government deepened, with protests continuing despite negotiations. Although union leaders met with Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, they refused to end their agitation, demanding the release of detained colleagues and the reinstatement of dismissed workers.

The protest was originally sparked by opposition to a kilometre-based bus scheme seen as a threat to job security. The scheme allows private operators to lease buses to the transport department at a fixed rate per kilometre, a move workers claim could jeopardize thousands of jobs in the public sector.

Amid promises from Bhullar to resolve these grievances, tensions have escalated, with clashes erupting and injuries reported. Union leaders remain steadfast, urging the government to fulfill its assurances swiftly.

(With inputs from agencies.)