LUCKNOW, Oct. 25 -- Two contractual employees of the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC), a driver and a conductor, allegedly attempted self-immolation at the corporation's Qaiserbagh workshop on Sunday during a protest over delayed salaries, alleged harassment by officials and pressure to meet passenger occupancy targets.

The driver poured petrol over himself, alleging that officials were holding drivers responsible for low passenger numbers despite the operation of unauthorised private vehicles. The conductor accompanying him also poured petrol over himself. Other employees intervened and prevented them from setting themselves on fire.

The incident created tension at the workshop, prompting the closure of its main ...