Talks inconclusive, strike to continue tomorrow

Mumbai, Apr 21 (UNI) The marathon discussion between BEST (Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport) management and representatives of BEST unions remained inconclusive today and the strike will continue tomorrow.

BEST Kamgar Karmachari Sanghatana President Sharad Rao said, ''Second round of talks with the management remained inconclusive and the strike will continue for second day tomorrow.'' He said the third round of talks with BEST authorities would be held tomorrow afternoon.

Over 42,000 BEST employees and thousands of commuters were affected by the indefinite strike called by the unions as 3,391 buses went off roads in the metropolis since midnight yesterday, protesting against the Pay Revision Committee's report. The employees' unions have been demanding a settlement of outstanding dues of Rs 350 crore.

Earlier, BEST Spokesman Abdul S Tamboli said all 3,391 buses were off the roads.

However, though Maharashtra government has invoked the Essential Service Maintenance Act (ESMA), it has not yet been applied against the striking employees.

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