Metro fare hike controversy deepens in Bengaluru

Bengaluru Metro fare hike row escalates: CM blames Centre, but HDK says state pushed for the hike to ease finances, leaving commuters burdened

The debate over the Bengaluru Metro fare hike has reignited, with sharp exchanges between state and central leaders. For nearly a year, commuters have been burdened by higher ticket prices, sparking widespread public opposition. Despite repeated protests, the issue has only now gained formal attention from the government.

Recently, MP Tejaswi Surya submitted documents to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who in turn pointed fingers at the Centre. However, critics argue that the state government itself initiated the push for fare revision. A letter from the Urban Development and Finance Departments to BMRCL explicitly stated that the hike was “necessary” to ease the state’s financial burden.

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has accused the state government of misleading the public. He contends that while the Centre holds only a 20% stake in the metro project, the state—bearing the larger share—cannot absolve itself of responsibility. “Who is fixing the fare? Why are there no hikes in other states?” he asked, alleging that the Karnataka government is shifting blame to the Centre while implementing anti-people policies.

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Kumaraswamy further criticized the Chief Minister for repeatedly advertising financial empowerment schemes and guarantees, while ignoring the real struggles of ordinary citizens. He argued that the government’s assumption that people are financially well-off and willing to pay any fare is an illusion.

The controversy underscores a deeper political tussle. While the fare-fixing committee is a legitimate body, the inputs it receives—particularly regarding affordability—stem from the state government. Observers note that the attempt to portray the state as a helpless spectator is misleading, as it has played a central role in shaping the fare structure.

As the debate intensifies, commuters remain caught in the crossfire, continuing to bear the brunt of steep fares. With leaders trading accusations, the public’s demand is clear: accountability and relief from the rising cost of travel.

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