A video reportedly showcasing a Karnataka state-run KKRTC bus travelling along a poorly lit road, with its conductor using a mobile phone torch instead of functional headlights, has sparked significant political backlash. The video was disseminated on social media by Nikhil Kumar, the State Youth President of Janata Dal (Secular), and has gained widespread attention. This incident has led to criticism of the current government’s handling of the public transport system.

Opposition Accuses Government of Negligence

Nikhil Kumar described the video as evidence of a “shocking state of affairs” regarding public transport in Karnataka. He claimed that the Congress government has allowed the state’s buses to deteriorate due to inadequate maintenance resources. Kumar emphasised that commuters are subjected to unsafe travel conditions, and the government is failing to address this critical issue.

Furthering his criticism, Kumar alleged that the government has not made sufficient progress in implementing 4,500 electric buses, which had been allocated to the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme initiated by the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries. He argued that while these buses were confirmed for deployment in December 2025, the state has yet to issue the necessary Letter of Award to initiate the rollout.

In addition, Kumar pointed out that Karnataka’s government has not resolved outstanding reimbursements related to the Shakti scheme, amounting to Rs 4,573 crore. He contended that this financial shortfall is contributing to the ongoing challenges facing the state’s transport corporations, which struggle to maintain and repair their fleets due to a lack of funds.

Concerns Over Transport Conditions Grow

The implications of the viral video raise concerns about the broader state of transportation within Karnataka. Kumar highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and reliability of public transport services. He attributed the present situation to what he described as administrative failures and negligence on the part of the government.

As the public discourse surrounding this incident continues, various stakeholders are calling for immediate action to rectify these issues. Many argue that enhancing the maintenance and operational capabilities of state-run buses is essential for meeting the needs of the public effectively.

The current controversy emphasizes the pressure that sits on the government to deliver better infrastructure and facilities for commuters. Stepping up efforts to clear financial backlogs and accelerating the adoption of electric buses could be pivotal in addressing the deficiencies highlighted by the viral video. Stakeholders await the government’s response as discussions unfold regarding the future of public transport in Karnataka.

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