Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar responded to BJP criticism regarding the Metro fare hike, stating that the issue falls outside the state government’s jurisdiction. He emphasized that no proposal on this matter has been received by him. Shivakumar urged BJP leaders to address their concerns to Union ministers, questioning their capabilities in handling the issue.
Clarifying the decision-making authority on Metro fare hikes, Shivakumar highlighted that the final say rests with the Centre, led by a Union government secretary. He noted that while the state has representatives on the committee, the ultimate decision lies with the central government.
In response to claims that the state government could alter committee members to regulate fares, Shivakumar questioned the feasibility of such changes. He challenged the necessity for approval to appoint a Karnataka representative as the committee chairperson.
MPs Tejasvi Surya and P.C. Mohan’s assertions that the state government could influence fare regulations through committee member changes were met with skepticism by Shivakumar. He pointed out that the Centre’s contribution to Metro projects is limited, emphasizing that a previous agreement designated a central official to head the committee.
Shivakumar clarified that the state government was not consulted on the Metro fare hike issue, indicating that it was not discussed with the Cabinet or the Chief Minister. He also mentioned that there were no ongoing talks regarding a potential water tariff increase.
