Loco Pilots Launch 48-Hour Hunger Strike Across Railway Network

Thiruvananthapuram: Locomotive pilots across the country have begun a 48-hour hunger strike in protest against discriminatory treatment by railway authorities. In the Thiruvananthapuram division, the protest is underway outside the Divisional Railway Manager’s office, while in Ernakulam South it is being staged in front of the crew booking office. The employees are continuing their regular duties while observing the fast.

The strike began at 10 AM and was inaugurated in Ernakulam by M. M. Rolly, All India Vice President of the All India Loco Running Staff Association. Addressing the gathering were All India Working President L. Mani, P. N. Soman, Zonal Vice President P. K. Harish, Divisional Secretary V. V. Gagarin, and P. J. Joseph. The session was chaired by President N. N. Girish, and Branch Secretary M. Biju delivered the welcome address.

Union representatives said they have repeatedly taken their concerns to senior railway officials, but no meaningful action has been taken. With the issues remaining unresolved for a long time, the employees say the hunger strike was the only remaining option to make their grievances heard.