After Bombay HC order, MSRTC decides to call off strike; buses to ply on roads from today

The core committee of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation decided to call-off the strike in late-night meeting on Friday. Buses are likely to hit roads from Saturday.

Earlier on Friday, the Bombay High Court on Friday termed MSRTC strike as illegal and ordered to call it off with immediate effect.

In a late evening order, Justice S K Shinde also directed the committee, set up by the state government to look into the employees’ issues, to submit its interim report by November 15 and the final report on December 21.

Over one lakh MSRTC employees went on an indefinite strike on Tuesday, demanding a salary hike in accordance with the recommendations of the 7^th Pay Commission.

The court was hearing two PILs, including one filed by city resident Jayant Satam, seeking that the strike be declared illegal and the staff be asked to resume work.

“The strike is illegal and they (MSRTC staff) are directed to resume work with immediate effect,” the court said.

“The government cannot remain a mute spectator on the strike. This is affecting the public at large, especially during the festive season,” it added.

Nearly 65 lakh people travelled by MSRTC buses every day, the petitions said.