Rahul Gandhi Shares Insights from DTC Bus Ride, Highlights Workers’ Plight
Rahul Gandhi Discusses Unpaid Salaries with DTC Staff
Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, recently shared a video of his journey on a Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus. During the ride, he engaged with bus conductors, drivers, and other staff members, inquiring about their salaries and the challenges they face. On Monday, Gandhi criticized the Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party, by shedding light on the hardships faced by the DTC staff. He pointed out that many drivers and conductors are forced to live in uncertainty, with Home Guards, who are on duty for passenger safety, going without pay for six months.
DTC Staff Reveal Wage Concerns and Job Insecurity
During the conversation, the DTC staff revealed that they earn around ₹816 daily, which includes deductions for Provident Fund (PF) and other contributions. They mentioned the lack of rest during the month, even on holidays, and the penalization for taking leave. One driver explained that their salary is determined based on the kilometers they drive, with an expectation to work for 8 hours, which often extends by an hour or two.
Struggles of Living Without a Salary for Five Months
When asked how they could be helped, the DTC staff disclosed that they have not received their salaries for five months. They are struggling to pay rent and support their families, with their children unable to continue their education. The buses are also not operating efficiently. The state government blames the central government, and vice versa, for not releasing funds. Now, they are told to wait another two months for their salaries, with no certainty of relief in sight.
Contractual Employment with Annual Renewal and Lack of Security
A bus conductor working on a contract basis shared that their contracts are renewed annually. However, if there is less work, the contract may not be renewed, leaving them jobless. The staff demanded permanent employment, equal pay for equal work, and job security.
Home Guards Face Uncertain Futures with No Pay
A Home Guard voiced concerns about the lack of job security, even though they are guaranteed citizenship. They highlighted the widespread privatization, which threatens the future of their children. Many Home Guards have been waiting for their pay for the last six months, and the stress has led to the deaths of 24 Home Guards, with some succumbing to heart attacks. With over 10,285 Home Guards recruited and their tenure extended until January 2025, many are in their 50s and are unsure of their future, questioning who will employ them at this age. A female driver also emphasized the need for equal pay for equal work.
Privatization Benefits the Wealthy, Says DTC Staff
Rahul Gandhi inquired about the beneficiaries of privatization, to which the DTC staff responded that it is the industrialists who profit the most. They mentioned that while everyone wants to speak out, many are afraid to express their thoughts openly.
Rahul Gandhi’s Post on X (formerly Twitter)
In his post on X, Rahul Gandhi expressed his thoughts on the situation, stating, “A few days ago, I had the pleasure of traveling on a bus in Delhi and conversing with DTC employees about their daily routines and challenges. There is no social security, no stable income, and no permanent employment. Contractual labor has taken on heavy responsibilities out of compulsion. While drivers and conductors are forced to live in the darkness of uncertainty, Home Guards, who are constantly on duty for the safety of passengers, have been without pay for the past six months. Like government employees across the country, DTC employees are also living under the constant fear of privatization. These are the people who keep India moving, facilitating the daily commute of millions, but the reward for their dedication has been injustice. Their demands are clear – equal work, equal pay, and complete justice. With heavy hearts, they ask the government, ‘If we are strong citizens, why are our jobs so precarious?
