Minister Reinstates BMTC Conductor While Issuing Strict Protocol on Fare Disputes
Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh has ended the suspension of a conductor involved in a personal fare dispute. New directives mandate that Karnataka transport staff must stop forcing passengers off buses due to a lack of small currency.
End to Forced Alighting Over Currency Shortages
Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh has issued a comprehensive directive to all state-run transport corporations following complaints regarding passenger mistreatment. The order explicitly forbids conductors and drivers from forcing commuters to exit vehicles because of a lack of exact change. This policy shift applies to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and all other state transport divisions.
The Minister emphasized that the absence of small coins or notes should not be used as a pretext to harass or inconvenience the public. During a meeting on Wednesday, Suresh made it clear that any future reports of staff being rude or demanding passengers disembark over change issues will results in rigorous disciplinary measures.
Reinstatement Following Personal Altercation
The policy update follows a widely reported incident on July 11 during a surprise inspection. Minister Suresh was traveling on a BMTC route from Kempegowda Bus Station to Nagashettihalli when conductor T.G. Ramakrishna allegedly told him to leave the bus after the Minister could not provide the exact fare. The agency initially responded by suspending the employee.
The suspension was revoked this Wednesday after Ramakrishna met with the Minister to express regret. Suresh instructed officials to return the conductor to active duty, though the reinstatement came with a stern warning against repeating the conduct. The Minister noted that his own experience mirrored numerous complaints submitted by the traveling public in recent weeks.
Focus on Professionalism and Shakti Scheme Implementation
In addition to currency disputes, the Ministry has set new expectations for how staff interact with beneficiaries of the Shakti scheme, which provides free travel for women. Security and service quality were highlighted as top priorities for the state's transport infrastructure. Minister Suresh outlined several requirements for front-line staff:
- Maintain patience and courtesy when dealing with all demographics.
- Ensure no passenger is exploited due to technicalities regarding change.
- Adhere to strict professional standards to maintain public trust in state-run transit.
Source: The Hindu — News
