ASSEMBLY POLL '98
COMMENTARY
SPECIALS
INTERVIEWS
CAPITAL BUZZ
REDIFF POLL
DEAR REDIFF
THE STATES
YEH HAI INDIA!
ELECTIONS '98
ARCHIVES

Strike halts govt machinery in Karnataka

Work in all government departments in Karnataka, including the Vidhanasoudha, was totally paralysed on Monday, as employees went on an indefinite strike demanding the implementation of the Fifth Pay Commission recommendations.

Emergency medical services in hospitals and essential services like milk and water supply were, however, exempted.

Though officers reported for duty, no work was possible with employees staying away.

Reports received at the police headquarters said the strike was peaceful and total throughout the state.

The government declared the strike as illegal and invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act.

Prohibitory orders had been clamped in the state as a precaution a week in advance, and police posted in front of government offices.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister J H Patel said the Pay Commission recommendations were not binding on any state government. He appealed to the strikers to call off the agitation and negotiate with the government.

UNI

Tell us what you think of this report