‘I don’t take free tickets’: Woman refuses to avail Shakti Scheme, sparks debate

A woman’s choice to buy bus tickets despite being eligible for Karnataka’s free travel scheme has gone viral, igniting a larger conversation on subsidies, freebies, privilege, and civic responsibility.

Karnataka’s Shakti scheme, which offers women free rides on state-run buses, has been celebrated as a game-changing welfare measure. Yet, a viral social media post by a woman has brought a new layer of debate to the popular policy.

Also Read:Midnight fire in Bengaluru’s Nagarathpet claims two lives, family feared trapped

Sahana, shared online that she refuses to travel on free tickets even though she is eligible. “I feel proud when I buy my ticket. I don’t want to put extra burden on the state,” she wrote. Her words struck a chord with thousands, drawing both admiration and criticism.

I feel so happy & proud whenever I pay for my bus ticket, conductor asks.. Why? No Adhar card.. And I reply.. No sir, I don't take free tickets. Till date, have never travelled using free ticket.
I don't wanna put more burden on my state or country by using these freebies schemes pic.twitter.com/Gwj2Se9m1o

— Sahana (Renuka) Holimath🇮🇳 (@SHolimath) August 15, 2025

Supporters hailed her gesture as a sign of civic responsibility. Some compared it to refusing subsidies for ration or gas, praising her for “helping those who truly need it.” Others, however, saw her choice differently, calling it a stance born of privilege. “Welfare schemes exist for equity, not charity,” argued a respondent.

Also Read:Bengaluru’s Yellow Line chaos: Passengers forced to floor-sit amid 25-min waits

Many online users took a middle path, pointing out that subsidies are not inherently wrong but need reflection. “It’s about knowing whether you genuinely need it. Free schemes often carry hidden costs that may return as inflation,” one user noted.

Also Read:

1.Koramangala’s startup streets, broken roads: Bengaluru residents vent anger over pothole chaos

2.DULT flags risks in Bengaluru Tunnel Road: Metro safety and traffic concerns