Bengaluru, Oct 31 (Reporter) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said that there are no plans to reconsider the 'Shakti' scheme, which provides free bus travel for women across the state. His comments were made in response to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's recent suggestions regarding a potential review of the scheme based on feedback from some women. Siddaramaiah told reporters that "The government has no such proposal under consideration. There is no reason to revisit the issue at the government level, and there are no intentions or proposals related to this matter." Shivakumar had indicated that his remarks stemmed from responses he received via social media and emails, where a small percentage of women expressed a willingness to pay for their travel. He explained, "Some women, perhaps 5-10 percent, have expressed that they would be willing to pay. Ramalinga Reddy [Transport Minister] and I will have a discussion about it." However, he emphasised that the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) prioritises public service over profit, stating, "KSRTC is not focused on making money but on serving the public." Launched on June 11, 2023, as part of five guarantee schemes by the Congress government, the 'Shakti' scheme has reportedly cost the state Rs 7,507.35 crore, facilitating 311.07 crore free rides as of October 18, 2024. Addressing concerns regarding the scheme's stability, Shivakumar asserted that the BJP is attempting to sow confusion. He noted that while a majority of employed women who receive transport allowances have questioned the necessity of the free rides, there are no intentions to alter or discontinue the initiative. "There is no confusion about the Shakti scheme. Shivakumar concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to maintaining the scheme, asserting, "There are no plans or proposals to drop any of the schemes...////...