The BEST Kamgar Sena, one the workers' union of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), has announced a symbolic protest to oppose privatization and highlight the challenges faced by Mumbai’s iconic public transport system.
The protest, scheduled for Thursday, December 26, 2024, calls upon employees, officials, and the general public to wear black ribbons as a sign of solidarity.
The union has called on Mumbai citizens to participate in the protest by wearing black ribbons as a show of unity. They emphasize that the preservation of BEST is not just an issue for its workers but a matter of public interest, as it serves millions daily.
The key demands include stopping privatization. The union opposes reliance on private contractors (wet lease) for bus operations and advocates for BEST-owned buses to improve service quality.
Apart from that, the union is also demanding permanent recruitment to address staff shortages and provide stable employment, immediate disbursement of gratuity payments for retired BEST employees, and settlement of delayed allowances promised to employees for their service during the pandemic.
Speaking on the issue, Suhas Sawant, leader of BEST Kamgar Sena, said, "BEST is considered one of the lifelines of Mumbai, and privatization threatens its accessibility and affordability. We urge Mumbaikars to join hands with us to safeguard this essential public service and the rights of its workers."
The BEST undertaking, a municipal utility providing electricity and public transport services, has been facing financial strain in recent years.
The increasing privatization of buses and delays in fulfilling commitments to employees have fueled unrest among workers.
The union fears that continued privatization could lead diminished service quality.
"The protest is expected to draw attention to these pressing issues and rally support from across the city. With Mumbai’s citizens heavily dependent on BEST services, the movement could spark broader conversations about the future of public transport in the city" said a BEST worker.
