Akasa Koteja, president of the Karnataka State Government Employees Association (KSGEA), was taken into custody in Dharwad following a day of high drama involving a protest and alleged attempts to obstruct government work.
The KSGEA had organized a protest demanding the revocation of the new National Pension Scheme (NPS) and the reinstatement of the old pension scheme. The protest escalated when Koteja and other protestors allegedly attempted to gherao the residence of Dharwad MLA Vinay Kulkarni.
Police intervened, leading to a tense standoff and ultimately, Koteja’s arrest. Authorities stated the arrest was due to violations of prohibitory orders and attempts to disrupt public order. Prior to the arrest, Koteja had reportedly given a call for a state-wide bandh (shutdown) on February 13th.
The situation was further complicated by allegations that Koteja resisted arrest and engaged in disruptive behavior. Police used force to control the protestors and take Koteja into custody. Several protestors were also detained.
The KSGEA is strongly opposing the NPS, arguing it offers less financial security compared to the old pension scheme. They are demanding the state government revert to the old system, which provides a defined benefit pension.
The arrest has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the government of suppressing legitimate protests. The KSGEA has vowed to continue their agitation despite Koteja’s detention. The call for the February 13th bandh remains in place, and the association plans further protests to pressure the government to address their demands regarding the pension scheme. The incident highlights the growing discontent among state government employees over the NPS issue.
