Scores of women staff of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) conducted an impromptu strike against their depot manager at Kempegowda bus stand for “persistent verbal abuse” lasting several months.
The protest, however, did not affect services here.
One of the protesters said the women had repeatedly complained of verbal abuse, including remarks on their looks, and the use of swear words. “There has been no action on our complaints,” said a woman conductor.
Even male conductors gathered in solidarity, saying verbal abuse and ill-treatment of women had to stop.
While N.K. Basavaraj, Division Controller of BMTC central division, said complaints against the depot manager have been pouring in for the last six months, this was the first time women had staged a protest. He assured the protesters of an investigation, and strict action if the manager was found guilty.
