Overview

• Five private bus operators’ associations under the Besarkari Jatri Paribahan Banchao Committee have called for a statewide strike from May 22 to May 25.
• Key demands include a two-year extension for 15-year-old buses, reduction in toll taxes, and an end to alleged police excesses over traffic violations.
• Bus operators cite severe financial strain from COVID-19 losses and claim the state government has failed to provide a viable support package for the sector.
• A formal request has been made for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to hold talks by May 20, with DGP Rajiv Kumar’s participation to address enforcement-related concerns.
• Operators warn of potential escalation beyond the scheduled strike if their demands remain unmet, highlighting the sector’s precarious financial state.