BJP stages statewide protest in Karnataka over bus fare and milk price hikes
Protests were held at Bengaluru's Majestic terminal against the Congress-led government's decision to increase travel and essential commodity costs.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held protests across Karnataka on Thursday, including at the Majestic bus terminal in Bengaluru, to oppose the state government's decision to increase milk prices and bus fares, according to ANI.
The BJP delegation visited the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) terminals to object to the changes. The revised fares, which include a 23 per cent increase for KSRTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC, and a 33 to 35 per cent increase for BMTC, were set to take effect on Thursday night.
Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka alleged that the state government owes Rs 5,650.9 crore to the four transport corporations. He stated that the KSRTC is owed Rs 2,943 crore, NWKRTC Rs 1,306 crore, BMTC Rs 1,019 crore, and KKRTC Rs 999 crore, claiming the fare hike could have been avoided if these dues were cleared.
BJP state president BY Vijayendra accused the administration of placing the burden of financial mismanagement on residents, describing the policies as inhuman. Union minister Pralhad Joshi also alleged the government is pushing transport corporations toward bankruptcy.
The All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC) also condemned the decision. State Secretary K Somashekhar Yadagir said the hike is an anti-people burden, noting that the government recently increased milk prices by Rs 4 per litre and curd by Rs 14 per litre.
The state government has stated it would be willing to lower bus fares if the Centre reduces the cost of petrol and diesel.