Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar clarified his remarks on the state’s Shakti scheme (a scheme offering free bus rides to women) after Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed disapproval of the possibility of a review. The deputy CM’s initial comments suggested a discussion on reviewing the plan, drawing criticism and opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD(S)).

Addressing the media, Shivakumar insisted that his remarks were “twisted” and reaffirmed his commitment to the government’s welfare scheme. “We follow what our elders say,” he added, explaining that he was merely proposing a discussion and “there is no question of shutting down the plans.” Responding to allegations that it is dithering on key welfare initiatives, he said: “BJP just wants to indulge in playing politics. They have nothing better to do.”

The “Shakti” plan, which is among the five guaranteed initiatives implemented by the Congress government after it took office last year, was implemented on June 11, 2023. As of October 18, 2024, the state started investing. ₹7,507.35 crore and 311.07 crore free rides were provided to women under the programme.

The controversy first emerged on October 30, when Shivakumar mentioned feedback from some working women, especially those working in IT and multinational sectors, who expressed their willingness to contribute financially towards bus fares. Explaining her position, she said: “Many economically strong women who receive transport assistance have shown interest in paying for tickets. I only suggested that we discuss this with the transport minister but I never hinted at stopping the scheme.”

At an event to mark former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s death anniversary, Kharge warned Congress leaders in Karnataka about statements that could undermine the state government’s welfare commitments. Referring to the importance of social welfare programmes, he said similar programs were planned in Maharashtra as well. Addressing Shivakumar, Kharge said, “You have created doubts by calling it a revision, and that is enough for those who want to criticize.”

Responding quickly to growing concerns, chief minister Siddaramaiah completely rejected the idea of ​​a review. “There is no such proposal before the government,” he said, reiterating the administration’s determination to continue its promises of prosperity.

On Friday, following criticism, Shivakumar emphasized that the five major welfare schemes, including Shakti, will continue for the remaining 3.5 years of the current government’s term and beyond if the Congress is re-elected. He proposed a voluntary model, similar to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for LPG subsidy, where citizens who can afford it are encouraged to forgo subsidies. Underlining that he is open to evaluating voluntary contributions, he added, “We cannot force these programs on those who do not want them.”

When asked if women can pay for bus travel, Shivakumar pointed out operational difficulties and said: “Transport workers need permission from the government. Conductors are hesitant to charge women as the law prohibits it, and there may be accusations of forcing women to pay.” Shivakumar emphasized that this suggestion, brought forward by women themselves, should be evaluated carefully.

Shivakumar, who also leads the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), reiterated that his statement was misunderstood. Comparing the flexibility of the Shakti scheme with Modi’s LPG subsidy initiative, he said: “Some private company employees who received transport subsidies volunteered to pay for their tickets. How can we force someone who wants to pay?”

Meanwhile, BJP leader CN Ashwath Narayan blamed the Congress government’s Shakti scheme for overcrowding and service inefficiencies. The Shakti scheme, which provides free bus rides for women, is reportedly putting pressure on the transport system, affecting regular commuters such as students and workers.

He argued that implementing Shakti with available resources led to overcrowding, leading to the “collapse of the public transport system”. He added: “They implemented the Shakti scheme with the existing bus fleet, which caused a lot of inconvenience. Students and laborers suffered from overcrowding and inefficient services.”

Narayan said the Congress government appears to be reconsidering the plan in response to its impact on transportation. “Now realizing the mistake, the Congress government wants to withdraw the Shakti scheme. “It’s the right thing to do,” he added.