Why Was Kavitha Detained During the Protest Over Bus Pass Fare Increases?
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Synopsis
In a heated protest against the hike in student bus pass fares, K. Kavitha, a prominent BRS MLC, was detained by police outside Bus Bhavan. This incident highlights the rising tensions between students and the government, as significant fare increases spark outrage. Will the government heed the demands of the protestors?
Key Takeaways
- K. Kavitha led a protest against rising bus pass fares.
- Police detained protestors, escalating tensions.
- Bus pass fares increased by 20-30%.
- Students express discontent with government policies.
- The TSRTC justifies the hike due to increased ridership.
Hyderabad, June 10 (NationPress) Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC K. Kavitha and her supporters faced detention by the Hyderabad police on Tuesday while attempting to lay siege to Bus Bhavan in protest against the recent increase in bus pass fares for students.
In response to the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC)'s announcement on Monday regarding the fare hike, the Telangana Jagruthi, the cultural branch of the BRS led by Kavitha, organized a demonstration at the TSRTC headquarters.
Upon her arrival with supporters to hold a 'dharna' (sit-in), police intervened, preventing them from entering the premises, which escalated tensions.
Kavitha, seated on the road in front of Bus Bhavan, declared their intent to persist with the protest until the government reverses the fare increase.
The protesters voiced their dissent against the Congress government, with Kavitha stating that the administration has unfairly burdened students.
Following the protests, police detained Kavitha and other participants, taking them away.
She was subsequently moved to Kanchan Bagh Police Station, where numerous Telangana Jagruthi members gathered to express their support.
Simultaneously, the BRSV, the student division of the BRS, held its own protest at Bus Bhavan, demanding an immediate reversal of the fare hike.
With party flags and placards in hand, the protesters attempted to breach the gate but were met with police resistance and subsequent detention.
The TSRTC has raised bus pass fares by 20-30% across all categories, justifying the increase by noting that student fares had remained unchanged for three years.
According to the TSRTC, the surge in student ridership necessitated this adjustment, and students with bus passes will now also have access to Metro Express buses.
The previous tariff for student bus passes in Hyderabad and Warangal for distances up to four kilometers was Rs 150, which has now been raised to Rs 225. Additionally, the monthly general bus pass fare in these cities has increased from Rs 400 to Rs 600.
The Corporation also updated toll plaza charges, noting that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) raises these fees annually. While the TSRTC had absorbed these costs for several years, they have decided to pass on this expense to passengers, although it will not affect city and suburban bus services, as no toll plazas exist within city limits.
Point of View
I recognize the critical importance of addressing student concerns regarding transport costs. This incident underscores the ongoing struggle between government policies and the needs of the youth. Our commitment remains with the community, advocating for their voices to be heard and their grievances addressed.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the protest led by K. Kavitha?
The protest was triggered by a significant hike in bus pass fares for students, which the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation implemented.
What was the response of the police during the protest?
The police detained K. Kavitha and other protestors when they attempted to lay siege to Bus Bhavan, leading to heightened tensions.
What are the new bus pass fares for students?
The bus pass fares for students have increased by 20-30%, with the rate for up to four kilometers rising from Rs 150 to Rs 225.
What actions did the student wing of BRS take?
The BRSV, the student wing, also organized a protest at Bus Bhavan, demanding the government rollback the fare hike.
How has the TSRTC justified the fare increase?
The TSRTC stated that the fare hike was necessary as student bus fares had not been revised for the past three years and due to increased ridership.
