Punjab Transport Workers Rally in Ludhiana, Honor Martyrs and Protest Privatization
In a significant demonstration of solidarity and dissent, contract workers from Punjab Roadways, Punbus, and the Punjab Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) organized a rally at the Ludhiana depot. The event served a dual purpose: paying heartfelt tribute to the martyrs Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, while simultaneously voicing strong opposition to the ongoing privatization of public transport and highlighting critical issues like pending salaries and worker exploitation.
Tribute to Revolutionary Icons and Call Against Injustice
Union State Secretary Shamsher Singh Dhillon addressed the gathered workers, drawing powerful parallels between historical and contemporary struggles. He emphasized that the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, who was martyred on March 23, 1931, continues to inspire movements against injustice today. Dhillon lamented that decades after the end of British colonial rule, exploitation persists in new forms, accusing the current government of actively suppressing dissenting voices.
"Workers who protest against privatization are being targeted with false cases, and some have even been imprisoned," Dhillon claimed. He further argued that union representatives have repeatedly demonstrated how privatization schemes lead to substantial financial losses for the department, yet the government continues to push tenders through aggressively.
Demands to Halt Privatization and Strengthen Public Transport
The protesters issued a clear set of demands aimed at safeguarding public transport and worker rights. They called for the immediate discontinuation of the kilometer scheme and all privatization initiatives. Instead, they urged the Punjab government to invest in a large fleet of new buses to strengthen and modernize public transportation infrastructure.
Additionally, the workers demanded the abolition of the contract system, the removal of contractors, and the regularization of all employees. "Outsourcing has led to severe exploitation of workers," stated Jatinder Singh, the union's depot president. He detailed how contractors are deducting employees' EPF (Employees' Provident Fund) and ESI (Employees' State Insurance) contributions without depositing them on time, while also making unauthorized salary cuts.
Broken Promises and Ongoing Exploitation
Jatinder Singh highlighted a stark contrast between political promises and ground reality. "Despite pre-election assurances to abolish the contract system and regularize employees, no concrete steps have been taken so far," he remarked. This inaction has left workers in a precarious position, facing financial instability and unfair labor practices.
The rally underscored a growing frustration among transport workers who feel betrayed by unfulfilled commitments and are now mobilizing to protect their livelihoods and the public sector. The event not only honored the legacy of India's freedom fighters but also framed the current struggle as a continuation of the fight against exploitation and for justice.
