Women associations join RTC protesters

Dharna Chowk: A large number of women participated in the protest organised by various women associations in support of RTC strike here on Thursday. Professor Rama Melkote, POW leaders Sadhya, Jhansi, Vimalakka, Congress leaders Indira, Anuradha, Devi, former MP V Hanumantha Rao, former minister Mothkupalli Narsimhulu, RTC JAC convener Ashwathama Reddy, co-convener Raji Reddy and other RTC leaders participated in the protest.

Various speakers, speaking on the occasion, denounced the government's hostile attitude towards RTC employees. They alleged that the government is trying to sow dissensions among the employees by spreading false information.

They refuted the government's statement that employees withdrew their prime demand for merger of RTC with government. Condemning state repression, they alleged that the government was not allowing employees to stage protests. Permissions for the protests above 200 people were not being given, they alleged. They flayed that the CM KCR was eying the valuable RTC properties and, hence, was deliberately conspiring to destroy RTC.

The protesters urged women to participate in large number in the public meeting to be held on October 30 to make the CM realise people's power. Explaining the reasons to go for strike, they said that it was only an attempt to save RTC.

Accusing the CM of being dictatorial, they said that the CM failed to fulfil the aspirations of Telangana people. Extending solidarity to the striking RTC employees, the leaders assured RTC employees to continue their support until their demands are met. Later, women participated in 'Vanta Varpu' program and were provided lunch at the protest venue.