UDF govt walks the talk; 'Priyadarshini' superhit from day one

Governments collect various types of direct and indirect taxes from the people. Therefore, the government is obligated and responsible to return a portion of this tax to the people for welfare activities. However, no democratic government pays the strictest attention to tax collection to fulfil this obligation. The lion's share of tax money is spent on salaries and other benefits given to government officials. The government uses tax money to provide public transport, hospital systems, schools, and defence forces, but in the changed times, it is normal for citizens to expect some of the benefits to reach them directly.

It is beyond any sense to believe that people would patiently wait for another fifty years to eat the fruits of development, hoping that the country achieves the superpower tag years later. The habit of saving for tomorrow by minimising today's living expenses was the life mantra practised by the older generation. The current generation only cares about the benefits that reach them directly when the government is in power. The big political parties with conservative views failed to foresee this. It was the Aam Aadmi Party that introduced free bus travel for all women of all ages in Delhi's DTC buses in 2019. Now the BJP government is ruling Delhi. They have not withdrawn this free travel scheme. It means that if implemented once, the scheme stays forever. No political party would have the courage to cancel the scheme for fear of political battering.

In eight states, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Punjab, women do not have to pay for tickets in government buses. The 'Priyadarshini' scheme, which allows free travel for women in ordinary buses, was inaugurated by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan at the Thampanoor Bus Terminal in the presence of Transport Minister C.P. John. Those criticising this scheme now with empty excuses have not gauged the depth of the impact this scheme is going to create in the future in Kerala society.

If the scheme had been implemented by dividing women into different categories or age groups, it would not have survived even for a day. Cynics may question how those earning Rs 1 lakh and those working as housemaids, availing the free ride together, would bring quality in society. At first glance, this may seem logical. However, the majority of those earning such high salaries have their own vehicles. They do not travel by bus every day. The government should answer the critics by gradually extending the free ride provided in ordinary buses to other services. It is hoped that this will be possible within the next five years. Actions speak louder than words. The UDF government has won it big in the first round. Let us hope that the success reaches more citizens in the coming days.

PIC CREDIT: THE HINDU