Protests erupt in Karnataka over 15% bus fare hike
Bengaluru: Protests broke out across Karnataka following the state cabinet's decision to increase bus fares by 15% for all state-owned transport corporations, effective from January 5, 2025. The hike aims to address financial strains on transport corporations due to rising fuel prices and operational costs.
The decision has sparked criticism, particularly from opposition parties, who argue that the fare increase places an unfair burden on men, while the state’s 'Shakti' scheme continues to provide free rides for women. Karnataka Law Minister HK Patil defended the hike, stating that it would generate approximately Rs 74.85 crore monthly and Rs 784 crore annually, helping offset deficits faced by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and other transport bodies.
Patil explained that the last fare revision was made a decade ago, and with significant increases in diesel prices and operational expenses, the hike was necessary. He assured that the 'Shakti' scheme would continue, with the state government releasing Rs 417 crore monthly to support it.
The fare increase has been met with sharp opposition from the BJP. Party leaders, including R. Ashoka, criticized the Congress government for its financial mismanagement, while BJP MLA Dheeraj Muniraju accused the government of "looting" the public by raising fares for men while providing free rides for women. A state-wide protest against the hike is scheduled for January 4, 2025.
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Young Arya's maiden IPL ton power PBKS to 18-run over CSK
Mullanpur, Apr 8 (PTI): Young opener Priyansh slammed his maiden IPL century to power Punjab Kings to 18-run win over Chennai Super Kings in an Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday.
Opting to bat, Arya shone bright with the bat to power PBKS to 219 for 6.
Arya rode on his luck and power-hitting to make 103 off just 42 balls with the help of seven fours and nine hits over the fence.
Besides Arya, Shashank Singh scored 52 not out off 36 balls.
Chasing, Devon Conway retired out for 69 off 49 balls, while Shivam Dube and Rachin Ravindran scored 36 and 42 respectively.
Towards the end the legendary MS Dhoni played a 27-run cameo off 12 balls but the knock was not enough to guide CSK to victory as the Chennai outfit could muster 201 for five.
Brief Scores:
Punjab Kings: 219 for 6 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 103, Shashank Singh 52 not out; Khaleel Ahmed 2/45).
Chennai Super Kings: 201 for 5 in 20 overs (Devon Conway 69 retired out, Shivam Dube 42; Lockie Ferguson 2/40).
