Karnataka constables threaten strike in for better pay, work conditions

Mangalore Today News Network

Jun 03, 2016: Thousands of police constables have threatened to go on leave on June 4 in Karnataka to protest against low salaries, poor working conditions and political interference.

 

The strike was called by the Akhila Karnataka Police Mahasabha who said around 60,000 constables will go on leave on Saturday.

However, Om Prakash, director general of police, said orders were issued to reject all leave applications.

“There will be no strike on June 4; we have written commitments from the constables,” he said.

Police on Tuesday arrested Shashidhar Venugopal, president of the association calling the strike. His wife said the raiding police team showed no arrest warrant. Venugopal has been booked for sedition and criminal conspiracy.

However, some constables have said they would carry out the strike nevertheless.

“While we haven’t yet applied for leave, we would be doing so, even if they don’t sanction it. We are all part of the struggle. But some people have been intimidated into not being part of the strike. We support the demands of the Mahasabha,” said an assistant sub-inspector in Bengaluru on the condition of anonymity.