The Kerala government has faced criticism for taking disciplinary action against a female conductor who protested against the delay in salary. Akhila S. Nair, an employee of the Vaikom Depot of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), wore a badge displaying ’41st day of unpaid service’ while on duty on January 11. Her protest went viral on social media, drawing attention to the government’s mismanagement and the poor conditions of KSRTC employees.
In response, the government issued a transfer order citing defamation of the government and the corporation. Akhila has been transferred to Pala, prompting criticism that the government’s action is retaliatory and unfair. The order states that the employee who defamed the government and the corporation will be transferred for administrative convenience.
Many have expressed their support for Akhila and condemned the government’s action. Critics argue that the transfer is an attempt to silence her and discourage other employees from speaking out against the government’s policies. They also note that the transfer order was issued after her protest went viral on social media, suggesting that the government is more concerned with its public image than with addressing the concerns of its employees.
The incident highlights the need for greater attention to be paid to the challenges faced by women in the workplace, particularly those in public sector jobs. Women often face discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and their voices are often silenced or ignored when they speak out against injustice. The National Commission for Women must take steps to ensure that women employees are treated fairly and with respect and that their rights are protected.
Discussion about this post