BJP Calls Statewide Protests Over Karnataka Bus Fare Hike

On November 5, the BJP is taking its fight against Karnataka’s bus fare hike to district headquarters across the state and to Bengaluru. The new fares took effect at midnight on November 4, and the party says the increase shifts the cost of the transport corporations’ financial problems onto passengers. The protest is a sharp public challenge to a decision already affecting daily travel. ^5,13

That decision raised Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) fares by about 33% to 35%, while fares at the three other state-run transport corporations rose by an average of 23%. It is the second increase since January 2025, when fares rose 15%. Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh says diesel, wages and maintenance costs have climbed, and the four corporations have about ₹10,200 crore in losses built up over time. ^2,18

The ₹10,200 crore figure is part of a wider dispute over who should carry the burden. BJP leaders say the state owes transport corporations ₹5,650 crore and should clear those payments instead of raising fares. The government says higher fuel and staff costs have made a fare change necessary. Experts warn that more expensive bus rides may push some people toward two-wheelers or force poorer passengers to cut other spending. This comes even as the state wants more people to use public transport. ^5,7

That pressure is clearest on short BMTC trips: a two-kilometre ride has gone from ₹6 to ₹10, while a four-kilometre fare rose from ₹12 to ₹18. The BJP’s November 5 protests will test how strongly passengers and party supporters oppose the change. For now, the new fares remain in force, and the government has said it would consider reducing them if the Centre cuts petrol and diesel prices. ^1,6