The State government is attempting to dispose of public sector undertakings (PSUs) on the sly, the Opposition alleged in the Council on Thursday.
Opposition members alleged that preferential treatment was being given to private drivers and buses. “MSRTC drivers are not being acknowledged as State employees. This is nothing but an attempt to dispose of sick PSUs,” said NCP leader Sunil Tatkare.
Leader of the Opposition Dhananjay Munde said while private drivers were earning between ₹30,000 and ₹40,000, State transport drivers were being given the short shrift.
Transport Minister Diwakar Raote said the transport union had presented 300 demands, many of which are pending in the court. He said, “We will clear the pending issues, but pay hike can be discussed only after the court hearing is complete. This government is committed to the welfare of drivers, but the Chief Minister has taken a stand that the drivers can’t be included in the Seventh Pay Commission.”
The Opposition staged a walkout and shouted slogans over the response.
