Under the Karnataka Government’s Shakti Yojana, women are entitled to travel free of cost in KSRTC buses. However, this popular guarantee scheme has created a serious threat to the very existence of women’s reserved seats.

A shocking incident that took place this morning (on an Airavat Club Class bus KA-19 F-3196 travelling from Mangaluru to Mysuru) is proof of the same. ANNI DESIGNER Pure Cotton Maroon Kurta Pant Set with Dupatta for Women | 3 Piece Gold Hand Block Printed Suit Set | Cotton Kurta Set for Women | Festive Kurti Set

Even though many seats were vacant, several male passengers were occupying the women’s reserved rows.When a woman passenger pointed this out and asked the conductor to intervene, he responded with utter irresponsibility.

Passengers report that the conductor actually said Women are travelling FREE anyway. Ever since Shakti Yojana started, the concept of women’s reserved seats has vanished.Also Read: AI as a 'Best Friend': Is Technology Drawing Us Closer While Our Hearts Drift Apart?!

Just sit wherever there’s an empty seat.When the woman politely requested a male passenger, Sir, this is a ladies’ reserved seat, kindly move elsewhere, the man looked at her contemptuously and just smirked.

What is even more distressing is that the conductor openly took the man’s side instead of enforcing the rule.Yes, Shakti Yojana has provided financial relief to women, but the disrespectful behaviour of some male passengers and the transport staff’s failure to protect the dignity of reserved seats is causing mental harassment to women travellers.Also Read: India's Future is in the Hands of 'Gen Z': Modi's Message at Skyroot Rocket Campus Inauguration!

Immediate technical solutions and large-scale awareness drives are urgently needed to resolve this growing problem.