Porvorim: On 30th September 2025, workers of Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited (KTCL) organized a one-day hunger strike in front of the KTCL head office at Porvorim, Goa. The protest, led by the KTC Drivers and Allied Employees Association (AITUC), drew attention to a range of employee grievances regarding management decisions and alleged violations of earlier agreements.
The action followed a special union meeting where the association highlighted several pressing issues. Key points of contention include the corporation’s decision to privatize KTCL services and introduce electric buses on routes traditionally operated by KTCL through contractors, compromising both worker interests and public welfare. The union accused management of disregarding commitments made in previous discussions, including the agreement signed with the Deputy Labour Commissioner on 19th March 2025 and the meeting minutes from 28th August 2024, which were agreed upon in the presence of the Chief Minister.
Union representatives further alleged that KTCL’s managing director made misleading statements about regularizing temporary staff while delaying and limiting benefits for drivers and conductors. According to union members, despite a settlement order dated 11th September 2025—which should have granted temporary status to affected staff and fixed their salaries at Rs. 26,800—the actual implementation excluded provident fund and other legally mandated benefits. Similar non-compliance was cited regarding an order dated 15th October 2024, reached before the Deputy Labour Commissioner.
During the strike, the Association placed several key demands before management, including:
- Immediate payment of arrears for 34 months
- Regularization of services, assured daily wages, and payment of pending benefits for contract and temporary staff
- Promotion of cadre staff without discrimination
- Reinstatement of dismissed employees and full recognition of work for all
- Direct employment of KTCL drivers for all new electric buses, rather than outsourcing to private contractors
Union leaders have warned that unless the management addresses these demands and honors past agreements, agitation will intensify. The KTCL Drivers and Allied Employees Association remains committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of KTCL employees and ensuring transparent implementation of policies affecting public transport in Goa.
