Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) employees launched an indefinite strike across Mumbai over unresolved demands such as wage revisions, pending dues for retired staff, and concerns over contractual/wet-lease workers. The action persists despite the Industrial Court granting a restraining order and the state invoking MESMA.
The agitation by a joint committee of 12 unions (BEST Sanyukt Kamgar Kruti Samiti) is causing severe disruptions, with very few buses leaving the city’s 27 depots. Two major unions (Shramik Utkarsh Sabha and BEST Kamgar Union) have completely distanced themselves from the strike and are continuing discussions.
The government invoked the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA), making the agitation illegal, and Mumbai Police have warned of legal consequences for those blocking willing employees or damaging property.
With nearly 25 lakh daily passengers affected, commuters are relying on the Mumbai Metro, local trains, and private app-based cabs/autos.
Merging the BEST’s deficit budget with the main Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) budget. Lump-sum payment of legal dues for retired staff and implementation of the 7th Pay Commission for 2016–2026.
Absorbing wet-lease and contractual bus workers into the permanent BEST workforce.
News Edit KV Raman