Bengaluru: As tensions escalate in Karnataka’s public transport sector, the state braces for a potentially massive disruption with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of transport employees announcing an indefinite strike beginning August 5. The move follows months of unheeded demands and unfulfilled assurances, prompting growing concern over labor rights and service continuity across the state.
In a strong show of support, the Solidarity Youth Movement – Karnataka has publicly aligned itself with the workers’ cause. In a statement issued on August 2, the organization urged the government to immediately respond to the transport workers’ demands, framing the issue not merely as a matter of wages, but as one of labour dignity and social justice.
According to the statement issued by Dr. Naseem Ahmed, State President of the Solidarity Youth Movement, representatives met with JAC leaders on August 1 to express solidarity and pledge active support. “This is not merely a matter of salaries; it is a question of social justice and protection of labour rights — principles to which our organization is firmly committed,” Dr. Naseem Ahmed emphasised.
A Struggle Reignited
The roots of the current agitation date back to 2024, when transport employees launched a statewide strike to demand fair compensation, timely disbursement of salaries, and the resolution of pending entitlements. Though the indefinite strike was called off on December 31, 2024, following an appeal by the government and subsequent negotiations, employees allege that key promises remain unfulfilled.
In the intervening months, dissatisfaction has simmered, culminating in a hunger protest organised by the JAC on July 30, 2025, at Freedom Park, Bengaluru. Workers used the platform to voice their frustration and renew their call for government accountability. The upcoming strike, if carried out, is expected to impact bus services across Karnataka, including services under BMTC, KSRTC, NWKRTC, and NEKRTC, which millions of commuters rely upon daily.
Call for Immediate Government Action
Labur rights advocates and union representatives argue that the state’s inaction undermines the credibility of its negotiations and reflects a broader disregard for essential service providers. The Solidarity Youth Movement has called on the government to adopt a “humane perspective” in dealing with the workers’ demands.
“Transport workers have consistently shown restraint and commitment to public service. Ignoring their basic demands not only violates labour rights but also threatens the stability of essential civic infrastructure,” said a spokesperson for the youth movement.
Political and Public Implications
With the strike now imminent, political observers are watching closely to see how the government responds. The strike has the potential to evolve into a broader movement encompassing other sections of the public workforce, especially if the government continues to delay action. Opposition parties have begun voicing concern, and civil society groups are increasingly rallying behind the workers.
Public sentiment remains mixed. While there is widespread empathy for the workers’ grievances, the potential disruption of transport services — especially for daily wage workers, students, and senior citizens — raises questions about how long public support will hold if the strike continues without resolution.
