Bengaluru is witnessing dramatic developments as BJP MP Tejasvi Surya was arrested during protests against the hike in metro fares implemented by the Congress government in Karnataka. This incident unfolded at the RV Road Metro Station, where Surya and other BJP leaders gathered to voice their dissent over the fare increase, which saw the minimum fare rising from ₹10 to a potential ₹15.
The arrest occurred after Surya was seen holding empty trunk boxes as a symbolic gesture during the demonstrations. Police intervened and took him into custody, although he was released shortly after. Following his release, Surya criticized the Congress government’s actions, stating that his arrest would not silence him. He emphasized the need for the public to be informed about Karnataka’s economic situation and demanded the government release a white paper detailing the state’s finances.
Surya further accused the state government of succumbing to pressure from the central government, claiming that the fare hike was halted twice due to interventions from Union authorities. His comments came amidst rising tensions as the BJP intensified its protests against the fare increase, which was approved by the Siddaramaiah government just days ago.
On February 9, officials from the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) confirmed that the fare hike had been given the green light, indicating that new rates would come into effect immediately. The previous fare structure allowed passengers to pay between ₹10 and ₹90, but the hike could see fares increase significantly, stirring unrest among commuters and citizens.
Despite warnings from the government, which had issued notices to Surya to refrain from participating in protests, he and his party members proceeded with their plans, leading to the police action. Surya’s statements during the protests have resonated with many, as he highlighted the economic concerns that citizens face due to rising transportation costs.
In the wake of the protests, local BJP leaders have written to Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, urging for a temporary halt to the fare hike. Subsequently, BMRCL has announced that the fare increase process will be paused, although indications suggest that the hike may still be implemented in the coming months, potentially in March or April.
The ongoing situation reflects the growing discontent among residents regarding the cost of living and transportation in Bengaluru, a city that has seen rapid development and increasing demands on its public transport systems. As the political tension escalates, it remains to be seen how the Congress government will respond to the mounting pressure from the opposition and the public.
With the BJP vowing to continue their protests, the outcome of this situation could have significant implications not only for the metro fare structure but also for the political landscape in Karnataka as the state moves forward.
