Transport Strike (Feb 20, 2026): Karnataka Bus Services May Stop Statewide as BMTC, KSRTC Strike Continues

Bus services across Karnataka may come to a halt from the morning of February 20, 2026, as transport employees' unions warn of a possible total strike if wage negotiations with the state government fail.

Union leaders have linked the strike call to the outcome of a meeting scheduled in Bengaluru on February 19, where representatives from the government and employee unions are expected to discuss the latest wage proposal.

'Bengaluru Chalo' Protest Continues at Freedom Park

Leaders from all four state-run transport corporations said the ongoing "Bengaluru Chalo" protest at Freedom Park will continue until their core demands are accepted. According to union representatives, any further delay in resolving the wage dispute would hit lower-level staff the hardest, as many depend entirely on these salaries.

The joint action committee has demanded:

Release of 38 months of pending salary arrears

Wage revision with effect from January 1, 2024

However, unions have rejected the government's offer of 26 months' arrears and wage revision from April 2025, stating that it falls short of earlier understandings.

One union leader said, "We are a working-class group putting in hard labour. We are only asking for fair compensation for our work. There can be no compromise on this issue," adding that protests will continue until the government provides written assurances.

Government Appeals for Cooperation

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has appealed to transport employees to cooperate and consider the government's financial position.

He stated that the decision to release 26 months of arrears was taken after careful consideration and urged staff to understand the current fiscal constraints faced by the state.

Key Points of Disagreement

Issue Union Demand Government Offer
Salary arrears period 38 months 26 months
Effective date of wage revision January 1, 2024 From April 2025
Bus Services Running Normally for Now

Despite concerns over disruption due to the protest call, bus services across Karnataka were running largely as usual through the morning of February 19. No major inconvenience has been reported by passengers so far from districts or bus depots.

KSRTC Managing Director Akram Pasha has instructed officials to maintain operational stability during the protest period. Staff have reportedly been told not to take leave except in emergencies.

Union leaders, however, say administrative steps will not deter them from intensifying protests if talks remain inconclusive.

A press conference is scheduled at Freedom Park at 4 p.m. on February 19, where unions are expected to announce their next course of action. The outcome will determine whether the strike proceeds from February 20 and if further negotiations with the government continue or stall.