Shimla, June 24 -- The Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri, has defended the implementation of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) amid the strike call by employees of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), saying the government was compelled to act to ensure uninterrupted public transport services across the state.

While speaking with ANI addressing the issue, Agnihotri said there was no justification for a "chakka jam" (transport blockade) when the state government had remained regular in paying salaries and pensions since assuming office in December 2022.

"HRTC has crossed more than 50 years of service and has an excellent track record. It is not merely a commercial or...