Karnataka Opposition Leader Slams Congress Over Proposed Bus Fare Hike
Karnatakas R. Ashok criticizes the Congress government for a proposed bus fare increase, warning of protests if its not revoked.
Bengaluru, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : R. Ashok, the leader of the opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, has launched a fierce attack on the Congress government regarding a proposed hike in bus fares. Speaking on November 2, Ashok accused the government of operating under two principles: deceiving the public and raising prices without consideration.
The fare increase is set to take effect on November 5. Ashok questioned whether the rising costs of essential items like milk and yogurt reflect a government that truly serves the people’s interests. “First, the price of milk went up, then yogurt, and now bus fares are set to rise. Is this how the Congress government works for the people?” he asked.
He criticized the government’s so-called ‘Shakti Scheme’, claiming that while it promised free travel, it simultaneously burdens families financially. Ashok directed his ire at Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Transport Minister B.S. Suresh, questioning whether the Congress government expects the people of Karnataka to pay for its guarantees.
The opposition leader highlighted the rising costs of milk, proposed bus fares, electricity charges, drinking water fees, property taxes, and the increasing tax burden on the public. “Is making life more expensive for ordinary people and leaving nothing untouched your measure of success?” he queried.
Ashok alleged that the state government is passing the burden of its financial mismanagement onto the citizens. He noted that the government has reported losses exceeding ₹9,000 crore across four state transport corporations. “Instead of hiding its failures in financial management and imposing burdens on the people, the government should address its administrative shortcomings before mentioning rising diesel prices,” he stated.
He further accused the Congress government of pushing the state’s economy to the brink of bankruptcy with its guarantee schemes, lacking the financial resources to sustain them. “The Congress government is now collecting money from the people under the guise of guarantees,” he claimed.
Ashok asserted that what citizens need is not a “guarantee of rising inflation,” but rather a promise of a peaceful and affordable life. He concluded by demanding an immediate withdrawal of the “anti-people” bus fare hike, warning that if the proposal is not rescinded, the BJP will take to the streets in protest, backed by public support.
