Women employees of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staged a protest at the Sarojini Nagar depot. The protest was staged to demand equal pay, better working conditions, and permanent job guarantees.
Male staff members also joined the demonstration, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among workers.
The protest originated at the newly inaugurated all-women ‘Sakhi Depot,’ the first in India to be fully managed and operated by women. Protesters reportedly prevented buses from leaving the depot, insisting their demands be addressed. They highlighted issues such as lack of job security, commuting difficulties for early shifts, and the need for fixed salaries.
The demonstration gained momentum as employees from other depots across Delhi joined in solidarity. Male workers held a separate meeting near the depot, supporting calls for fair wages and regular employment.
The protest comes a day after the government launched the ‘Sakhi Depot.’ The facility was set to operate 70 buses across 17 routes, including air-conditioned and non-AC services. However, the unrest has disrupted operations and drawn attention to the workforce’s grievances.