Tamil Nadu Bus Strike Enters Second Day: Reasons Behind Transport Workers’ Protest

The indefinite bus strike initiated by the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) has reached its second day on January 10. According to The Hindu, the State Transport Department affirms that regular bus services are operational in Chennai and across the state, despite the strike. Reports mention that the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) in Chennai ran 3,177 buses today, slightly below its usual count of 3,233 buses. On Tuesday, about 95% of buses were in operation amid the strike, as per officials cited by PTI.

What’s Provoking the Transport Workers’ Protest?

Transport union workers allege that the state government has ignored their demands. They seek the signing of the 15th wage revision agreement for increased pay and the filling of vacancies for bus drivers and conductors. Additionally, their demands include releasing the withheld dearness allowance (DA) of ₹6,000 monthly for retired workers, pending for eight years.

Who’s Participating in the Tamil Nadu Strike?

The strike involves workers affiliated with major unions such as Centre of Indian Trade Union (CITU), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), and Anna Thozhir Sanga Peravai (ATSP), among others.

Notably, in Tirunelveli district, buses are operational for Madurai, Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, Tiruchendur, Rajapalayam, and Sankarankovil as per usual schedules. The Government Transport Tirunelveli Zone operates 898 buses across districts, with monitoring officers overseeing operations. Police presence has been reinforced at workshops and depots for security purposes in Tirunelveli district.

As the strike persists, CITU State president A. Soundararajan addressed the situation, highlighting accusations of political maneuvering. Transport Minister SS Sivasankar attributed the strike to political motives by AIADMK, urging workers to resume bus operations. LPF Secretary and MP Shanmugam echoed similar demands and urged normal bus operations to uphold public welfare and counter political agendas.