In a significant election promise, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal announced free bus services for male students and a 50% concession on metro fares if his party retains power in the upcoming Delhi assembly elections. The move aims to ease financial burdens on students and prioritize affordable education and commuting.
AAP’s Focus on Education and Accessibility
Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal emphasized the importance of affordable transportation for students pursuing education. “Education is a top priority for the AAP government. Many poor students cannot afford transportation costs and miss out on education. Currently, we provide free bus services for female students. If we return to power, we will extend this benefit to male students as well,” Kejriwal said.
The Delhi government already offers free bus travel to women across all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses, including air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned fleets. Kejriwal’s latest proposal seeks to extend similar benefits to male students in schools and colleges.
Proposal for Metro Fare Concessions
Kejriwal also highlighted the need for discounted metro fares, given the financial strain on students. “Delhi Metro is a lifeline for students commuting to schools and colleges. However, with rising fares, many students face difficulties. To address this, I have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, proposing a 50% concession on metro tickets for all students,” he said.
He explained that the metro is a joint venture between the Delhi government and the central government, and the costs of this concession could be split equally. “This proposal is purely in the public interest and devoid of political motives. I hope the Prime Minister will consider and accept this initiative,” Kejriwal added.
Reducing Financial Burden on Students
Kejriwal emphasized that many students in Delhi rely heavily on public transport for commuting. “The financial burden on families, especially those from low-income groups, must be reduced. This initiative will ensure that no student is denied education due to high transportation costs,” he said.
The Chief Minister also reiterated that his government remains committed to making education and essential services more accessible and affordable for all sections of society.
Election Context
This announcement comes just weeks ahead of the Delhi assembly elections, scheduled for February 5, with vote counting on February 8. The AAP, which is contesting all 70 assembly seats, is focusing heavily on welfare initiatives to secure another term in office. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded candidates for 59 seats and is aiming to unseat the AAP government.
AAP’s Commitment to Student Welfare
Kejriwal’s promise of free bus rides and discounted metro fares aligns with AAP’s broader commitment to public welfare and accessible education. In recent years, the AAP government has introduced initiatives like free water and electricity for households consuming up to a certain limit, free healthcare services, and significant investments in Delhi’s public schools.
The extension of free bus services to male students and metro fare discounts is seen as a continuation of AAP’s welfare-focused governance model. Kejriwal reiterated that these measures are aimed at reducing disparities and enabling equal opportunities for students from all economic backgrounds.
Conclusion
As Delhi prepares for its assembly elections, AAP’s promise of free bus rides and metro concessions for male students highlights the party’s emphasis on education and welfare. The initiative, if implemented, could significantly benefit students and families, ensuring affordable transportation and access to education.
With public support at stake, this announcement adds to AAP’s efforts to retain its stronghold in the national capital. Whether this promise translates into electoral success will become clear on February 8, when the votes are counted.
