Bonus Delay Sparks BEST Bus Employee Strike, Disrupts Bhai Dooj Travel In Mumbai
Prior to Diwali, BEST employees have historically earned bonuses since 1970–71; however, this year, no incentives were given out.
Employees at Mumbai's BEST bus service protested the non-payment of their Diwali bonuses, causing major disruptions on the occasion of Bhai Dooj. The labour stoppage, which began on Sunday, caused the BEST bus depot in Magathane to completely shut down. It also had an impact on operations at a number of other depots throughout the city.
Prior to Diwali, BEST employees have historically earned bonuses since 1970–71; however, this year, no incentives were given out. In a letter to Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagare, BEST Workers Union General Secretary Shashank Rao demanded an investigation into the delay and responsibility for the issue.
Workers' discontent has grown as a result of the lack of assistance from other employee organisations despite the continued unrest.
According to sources, employee tensions have increased as a result of bonuses not being paid, particularly during such a momentous holiday season.
Many travellers concur that incentives ought to be disbursed as soon as possible, but some have voiced concerns about the strike's timing. Borivali resident Dattatray Khandagale said, "BEST is considered a second lifeline of the city; lakhs of Mumbaikars depend on this mode of transport. A sudden strike is not a good thing."
