Karnataka HC slams transport union, warns of contempt if strike continues

The Karnataka High Court has strongly warned the transport employees' joint action committee of contempt if the illegal strike continues despite court orders and ESMA being in force.

In a heated hearing on the PIL questioning the ongoing transport staff strike, the Karnataka High Court pulled up the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of transport employees for defying its earlier order prohibiting the bandh. The division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Joshi warned that violating the court's directive could lead to contempt proceedings.

The court reminded the JAC that ESMA (Essential Services Maintenance Act) is in force and gave a stern warning that union leaders can be arrested for continuing the strike. The bench directed the JAC’s legal representatives to inform the court by tomorrow whether the strike has officially been called off. Failing to do so could result in legal action for contempt of court.

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The Advocate General submitted that the strike was causing serious hardship to the public and briefed the court on the conciliation meetings held so far. The court questioned the progress of these talks and was informed that discussions are ongoing under the Industrial Disputes Act.

JAC's legal team confirmed in court that the strike will not continue tomorrow. However, the court insisted on official confirmation and warned that any delay or misleading information would result in strict consequences.

The bench strongly stated that while the unions can negotiate with the government, they cannot hold the public hostage, especially when essential services are disrupted.

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