Kerala Transport Minister CP John has warned of swift disciplinary action against Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) staff who misuse the state’s free bus travel scheme for women by issuing "zero tickets" to male passengers. Warning that such malpractice will not be tolerated, he stated that those responsible face immediate suspension and potential dismissal.
The minister defended the Priyadarshini free travel scheme, framing it as a broader women’s empowerment initiative rather than just a public transit policy. Addressing concerns about conductors improperly distributing the zero-value tickets, John noted that while a brief grace period was allowed when the scheme launched last month, leniency has now ended. Despite the isolated infractions, he commended the vast majority of KSRTC staff for their efforts, noting that over 99 per cent of employees are cooperating and that respect from staff has contributed to an 80 per cent surge in female patronage.
Responding to complaints regarding bus overcrowding since the scheme's inception, John acknowledged that high demand was anticipated during the initial phase. He explained that drivers and conductors have been instructed to prioritise passenger safety, as refusing entry to commuters is not feasible within the local social context.
To manage the heightened demand, particularly during the upcoming Onam and Sabarimala festival seasons, the government plans to lease private buses. John attributed this step to a chronic vehicle shortage, explaining that insufficient fleet purchases over the past decade combined with an ageing transport inventory have made it hard to keep pace with demand. He appealed to private operators to lease their vehicles to KSRTC, offering them the full daily ticket collections and assuring them that KSRTC’s improved financial stability guarantees prompt payment. He firmly rejected claims that the temporary leasing arrangements amount to privatisation, maintaining the move is purely seasonal.
Turning to wider political issues, John commented that nationwide protests over alleged NEET examination leaks, initially spearheaded by youth organisations before gaining opposition support, have eroded the political dominance of the ruling BJP. He also directed criticism towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding alleged irregularities in the Ayodhya Ram temple project, arguing that the Prime Minister must take responsibility given his prominent role in the temple's consecration ceremony.
Also read: Kerala suspends ADGP Ajithkumar
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