Karnataka plans smart cards to curb Shakti scheme free bus travel fraud

Karnataka is set to implement a smart card system for recipients of the Shakti scheme, a program offering free bus travel to women. This initiative aims to enhance the verification process and curb the misuse of the benefit by individuals not eligible for the scheme, according to government officials.

The proposal arises from concerns that free travel privileges have been exploited through fraudulent means, including the use of fake identification documents. The transport department is developing a robust verification mechanism that will require beneficiaries to obtain a dedicated smart card, contingent upon proving their eligibility. A Karnataka voter identity card is expected to be a primary requirement, alongside Aadhaar card verification, before the smart cards are issued.

Authorities intend to issue an estimated 30 million smart cards across the state. Initially, the system will undergo a pilot phase within the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation before a statewide rollout to other road transport corporations. Officials are also exploring the integration of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology into the cards, potentially enabling their use on the Namma Metro and other public transport modes, creating a unified travel card.

This development follows recent statements by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who emphasized that beneficiaries of state welfare programs must be registered voters in Karnataka. He reiterated that schemes like Gruha Jyothi, providing subsidized electricity, are exclusively for those listed on the electoral rolls. The verification drive is designed to prevent program abuse without disadvantaging genuine recipients, ensuring that no deserving citizen is excluded.

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Our objective is to stop misuse and eliminate ineligible beneficiaries. No deserving citizen should suffer due to this.