Karnataka's Shakti Program: Free Bus Travel for Women to Continue

Minister Ramalinga Reddy assured the continuation of Karnataka's Shakti program, offering free bus travel for women, amidst opposition reactions and discussions of revising schemes. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar clarified earlier statements regarding women's willingness to pay for tickets, emphasizing the scheme's persistence for years to come.

Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy confirmed on Thursday that the Shakti program, which provides free bus travel for women, will continue despite political tensions. Reddy announced, "The Shakti program has been in operation for 3.5 years and will persist for another 8.5 years, aligning with our promise to sustain women's benefits."

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had previously remarked on the possibility of revising the Shakti scheme due to feedback from women willing to pay for their tickets. "Around 5-10 percent of women expressed conductors are not accepting money," he explained, underscoring his commitment to evaluate the scheme's practicality with Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy.

Shivakumar later clarified that his comments pertained to a minority and not the overall scheme's discontinuation. He emphasized that the government's five guarantee schemes, akin to the Prime Minister's LPG subsidy appeal, would not be withdrawn but adapted to those preferring non-participation.

(With inputs from agencies.)