Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Kerala Minister Warns Against Free Travel Scheme Abuse
The Kerala Transport Minister, C P John, has warned that strict action will be taken against KSRTC employees who misuse the free travel scheme for women by giving tickets to men.
He praised most employees for doing a good job but said a few are causing problems.
The minister also talked about leasing private buses to handle more passengers during festivals like Onam and Sabarimala.
He said this is not privatization but a temporary solution because there aren't enough KSRTC buses.
He also commented on political issues, like protests over the NEET exam leak and questions about the Ayodhya Ram temple project.
Kerala Transport Minister C P John warned of strict action against KSRTC staff misusing the free travel scheme for women.
The Priyadarshini scheme aims to empower women, and misuse will result in suspension and possible dismissal.
Over 99% of KSRTC employees are implementing the scheme effectively, with an 80% rise in women passengers.
The minister announced leasing private buses to address shortages during Onam and Sabarimala seasons.
Critics view bus leasing as a step towards privatization, but the minister insists it's a temporary measure.
- Who
- Kerala Transport Minister C P John
- What
- Warned against misuse of the free travel scheme for women and announced measures to address bus shortages during peak seasons
- When
- July 26
- Where
- Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- Why
- To ensure the effective implementation of the free travel scheme and to meet increased passenger demand during festivals
Government and KSRTC Management
Critics of Bus Leasing
Bus Leasing for Peak Seasons
Government and KSRTC Management
Leasing private buses is necessary to meet increased demand during festivals like Onam and Sabarimala due to a shortage of KSRTC buses.
Critics of Bus Leasing
Leasing buses is seen as a step towards privatization of KSRTC, which critics argue undermines public transport.
- Minister
- C P John
- Scheme Name
- Priyadarshini free travel scheme
- Increase in Women Passengers
- 80%
- Initial Grace Period
- A few days
- Penalty for Misuse
- Suspension followed by dismissal
- Bus Shortage Reason
- Insufficient new bus purchases over the past decade
- Lease Payment Assurance
- Entire daily ticket collection given to private bus owners
