The disciplinary notices, announced by the Wazirabad depot manager, require the drivers to submit a written explanation within 24 hours or face an ex‑parte internal inquiry that could lead to dismissal.
The action comes amid a strike that began on Sept. 15, launched by DTC’s contractual drivers demanding higher daily wages, paid leave and a social‑security safety net; the drivers currently earn ₹862 a day with no such benefits.
Union leader Lalit Chaudhary of the DTC Karamchari Ekta Union warned that the union will not back down, reiterating plans for a full strike by all contractual staff on Sept. 28 despite the show‑cause notices.
In response, the DTC has issued compulsory‑attendance directives, asking staff at the Rohini depot to report between Sept. 25‑28 and at the Kalkaji depot between Sept. 24‑30, while threatening termination for those who fail to return.
Police have detained hundreds of drivers on FIRs alleging vandalism and mischief under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Prevention for Damage to Public Property Act, a charge the drivers say is fabricated.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday queried the state government on why the Essential Services Maintenance Act has not been invoked against the striking workers, urging officials to ensure that DTC buses continue to operate across the capital.
The prolonged disruption has hit commuters hardest, especially daily‑wage earners, domestic workers and students, prompting the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation to add eight to ten extra trains and run 20‑50 additional trips daily between Sept. 16‑22 to cope with the surge in passengers.