KTR terms RTC driver’s death State murder, demands justice

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao termed RTC driver Shankar Goud’s death a “State murder,” alleging government failure and betrayal of workers. He demanded Rs 1 crore compensation, a government job for the family, and urged talks to resolve RTC issues.

Hyderabad: BRS working president KT Rama Rao termed the death of RTC driver Shankar Goud in Narsampet as a State murder. He said the incident was not a suicide but the result of continuous betrayal of RTC workers by the Congress government over the past two-and-a-half years.

He demanded justice for the bereaved family. He also wanted the government to provide Rs 1 crore compensation and a government job to the bereaved family.

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In a statement, Rama Rao criticised the authorities for allegedly not allowing Shankar Goud’s mortal remains to be taken to the Narsampet depot to enable staff to pay a homage. He condemned the arrest of former MLA Peddi Sudarshan Reddy and other BRS leaders and workers who attempted to express solidarity and demanded their immediate release. He also urged the government to allow RTC staff and sympathisers to pay tributes to the mortal remains of Shankar Goud at the depot.

Amid growing unrest, Rama Rao said multiple RTC employees attempting suicide on the same day indicated the distress within the workforce. He accused the government of failing to fulfil election promises, including resolving RTC issues, and alleged attempts to weaken the Corporation. “This is a black day in the history of Telangana. With these incidents, people are being forced to relive the tragedies of the Telangana statehood movement,” he said.

Calling for urgent talks, he urged the government to address workers’ demands and restore confidence. He appealed to RTC employees not to resort to any hasty measures and instead, continue their agitation peacefully. He assured them full support from the BRS for the united fight.