Punjab Transport Workers' Protest Intensifies Amid Arrests

Contractual workers of Punjab's road transport corporation resumed their protest demanding release of arrested employees and reinstatement of suspended staff. The strike was initially paused after discussions with the transport minister but continued as assurances weren't fulfilled. Workers criticize the kilometre-based bus scheme threatening their jobs.

Contractual workers of Punjab's state-run road transport corporation have resumed their protest. The resumption occurred just a day after temporarily halting their strike following discussions with the transport minister.

The workers are demanding the immediate release of arrested employees and the reinstatement of suspended and dismissed staff. Their concerns stem from the kilometre-based bus scheme, believed to favor private players and endanger numerous transport sector jobs. On Monday, over 170 employees remain in police custody, according to the protests' union leader, Resham Singh Gill.

Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar had allegedly assured the workers about addressing their demands, including reinstating suspended employees. However, union representatives state these assurances have not been honored, prompting them to continue their protest. Bus services across the state remain affected, impacting passenger commutes drastically.

(With inputs from agencies.)