KN Balagopal blames Centre’s policies for KSRTC crisis, says Onam kits won’t be given to all

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Finance Minister KN Balagopal on Monday took a jibe at the central government over the prevailing salary crisis in the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). The minister blamed the Centre’s policies and oil price hike for the crisis and stated that the Kerala government will provide financial assistance to pay the salary for employees. 

“Earlier, the KSRTC did not require such aid. However, the corporation fell into crisis with the price hike and central government’s policies. The Centre’s approach has adversely affected the public sector. However, the state government is developing basic facilities to strengthen the public sector,” Balagopal said. 

Further, he added that the state government has given capital investment to construct buildings and buy new vehicles for KSRTC. Efforts should be made to increase the revenue of the corporation, he said. 

“More than Rs 120 crore is spent for salary and pension every month. At present, the state does not receive the share of taxes, which we used to get from the Centre earlier. If we get it, then there will be an additional income of Rs 20,000 crore per year,” minister said. 

Meanwhile, when asked about provision of Onam kits, Balagopal said a decision is yet to be made in this regard. “Some amount will be sanctioned for Supplyco this week. Onam kits that were distributed during the Covid period, will not be given this year. Kits will not be distributed to all cardholders,” he added.