Modi Government Faces Backlash Over Railway Fare Hike; Opposition Demands Immediate Rollback
Railway Fare Increase Draws Widespread Criticism
The Narendra Modi-led Central Government has come under fire after announcing a hike in railway ticket prices, a move that critics argue will burden millions of middle-class and low-income passengers. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly condemned the decision, demanding an immediate rollback.
“By increasing rail fares, the Modi government has dealt a severe blow to the livelihoods of crores of ordinary Indians who rely on trains as their primary mode of transport,” Siddaramaiah stated. “This hike must be revoked at once.”
BJP’s Silence on Fare Hike Called Out
The Chief Minister also slammed BJP leaders for their muted response to the fare increase, contrasting it with their vocal opposition when the state government raised milk prices to support farmers.
“When our government increased milk prices to aid farmers, BJP leaders called it anti-people. Now, when their own government raises rail fares, they are silent,” Siddaramaiah remarked. “This hypocrisy is unacceptable.”
He further pointed out that BJP leaders had previously protested against fare hikes in Bengaluru Metro, despite the fact that the decision was made by a fare-fixation committee where Central Government representatives held influence.
Rising Costs Compound Public Woes
The railway fare hike comes at a time when citizens are already grappling with soaring fuel and cooking gas prices. The imposition of GST on essential commodities—from milk and curd to tea powder and popcorn—has further strained household budgets.
“People are struggling with inflation, and instead of providing relief, the Modi government is emptying their pockets,” Siddaramaiah said.
Demand for Transparency in Railway Operations
Criticizing the lack of accountability in the Railways, Siddaramaiah demanded that Prime Minister Modi release a white paper on the department’s functioning before implementing any fare increases.
“The Railways, one of the world’s largest and most profitable transport systems, has lost transparency since the Modi government abandoned the practice of presenting a separate Railway Budget,” he argued. “The public deserves to know how their money is being used.”
Call for Immediate Action
With public anger mounting, Siddaramaiah urged the Central Government to reconsider its decision and prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens over revenue generation.
“The Modi government must withdraw this unfair hike and focus on policies that ease, not exacerbate, the financial burden on the people,” he asserted.
As the debate intensifies, all eyes are now on the Centre’s next move—whether it will heed the opposition’s demands or stand firm on its controversial decision.
Key Quotes:
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Siddaramaiah:
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“This rail fare hike is a direct attack on the poor and middle class. The Modi government must withdraw it immediately.”
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“When we raised milk prices for farmers, BJP called it anti-people. Now, their silence on rail fare hikes exposes their hypocrisy.”
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“The Railways must come clean—where is the white paper on its finances before increasing fares?”
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Opposition Leaders (Hypothetical):
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“If Railways is making profits, why burden passengers? This is pure revenue greed.” – [Opposition MP]
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“First fuel, then GST, now trains—how much more will the public suffer?” – [Political Analyst]
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Q&A Format:
Q: Why is the railway fare hike controversial?
A: Millions depend on trains for affordable travel. This hike, amid rising inflation, will strain household budgets further.
Q: How has BJP reacted compared to past protests?
A: BJP leaders protested state decisions like milk price hikes but are silent now—a clear double standard.
Q: What is Siddaramaiah’s main demand?
A: A white paper on Railways’ finances to justify hikes, plus an immediate rollback to protect passengers.
Q: Are Railways really profitable?
A: Yes, but since merging the Rail Budget, transparency has dropped. Public deserves clarity before fare hikes.
