GUWAHATI: Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) buses will cease plying on the roads following the decision made by ASTC to terminate 771 employees from their duties for allegedly gaining employment through unfair means.
According to media reports, ASTC employees have declared a strike at every bus station across Assam, leading to a complete halt in bus services on Thursday.
Reports earlier today indicated that during the tenure of two former Managing Directors, ASTC recruited a total of 2,274 employees without adhering to the proper selection process or implementing reservation policies.
A notice released by the authorities stated, "In respect of the engagement of contractual staff, it has been alleged that the entire 2,274 staff were recruited without following the due procedure or following the system of reservation, nor any interviews were held. The same is to be enquired into, and if found to be true, Show Cause notice to be issued to the then MD, ASTC for flouting the government norms and initiate Departmental Proceedings against the government."
Furthermore, the notice clarified that the Transport Department would conduct an assessment and review the current contractual staff of ASTC. Based on the findings, appropriate directions will be issued to retain only the essential and legally appointed contractual staff.
While speaking to G Plus the Managing Director of ASTC, Rahul Das said, “The Employees Union has sent us a notice regarding the strike. We have, however, directed them to continue operating the buses. We have made it clear from our side that the lives of commuters should not be hampered.”
It may be noted that affected workers staged a protest in the Paltan Bazar area of Guwahati demanding the withdrawal of the decision on Wednesday afternoon.
It may be noted that affected workers staged a protest in the Paltan Bazar area of Guwahati demanding the withdrawal of the decision on Wednesday afternoon.
The situation escalated rapidly, prompting the intervention of the Paltan Bazar police to maintain law and order.
While talking to G Plus, the Paltan Bazar Police officials said, “Approximately 35 protesters have been taken into custody and transported to the Chachal area of Guwahati for further action.”
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