The strike call has been given by the BEST Joint Workers Action Committee, which represents multiple employee unions. The workers are protesting against the increasing use of contract-based employment, the proposed redevelopment of BEST properties under the public-private partnership model, and other employee-related issues.
However, the Maharashtra government has stepped in and invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), prohibiting employees from going on strike.
Union representatives have alleged that decisions are being taken in favour of contractors while ignoring the interests of both workers and passengers. They claim repeated requests and discussions with authorities have failed to produce any concrete results.
One of the major concerns raised by the unions is the non-payment of gratuity to several retired electricity department employees since 2016. According to the committee, even after court directions, many retirees are yet to receive their dues along with applicable interest.
Workers have also expressed dissatisfaction over delays in implementing wage agreements for the 2016-2021 period and the non-implementation of revised pay scales based on the Seventh Pay Commission.
The BEST Joint Workers Action Committee consists of 17 labour unions. The committee said it has repeatedly approached civic authorities, BEST management and the state government regarding these issues. Representations have also been submitted to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, but workers claim no final decision has been taken so far.
Another major issue raised by the unions is the growing reliance on contract-based operations in both transport and electricity services. They argue that the wet-lease model benefits private contractors while creating uncertainty for permanent employees and affecting service quality.
Among the key demands are the merger of the BEST budget with the Mumbai Municipal Corporation budget, cancellation of contract-based hiring, absorption of wet-lease employees into BEST services, immediate recruitment to nearly 10,000 vacant posts, and a halt to the sale or redevelopment of BEST properties under the PPP model.
The state government has described the matter as serious and said any disruption to public transport or electricity supply could significantly affect daily life in Mumbai.
Officials stated that maintaining uninterrupted bus services and power supply is essential in the public interest. As a result, ESMA has been enforced to prevent any strike that could impact millions of residents.
Despite the government’s move, all eyes are now on discussions between employee unions and authorities to see whether a resolution can be reached before the proposed strike date.
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