STA Conducts Inspection at Cuttack Bus Terminal to Curb Discrimination Against Women Passengers

Cuttack: In a bid to prevent discrimination against women passengers, the State Transport Authority (STA) conducted a marathon inspection at Netaji Bus Terminal, Cuttack, today. The initiative follows the directives of Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena to curb superstitions and discriminatory practices, such as denying women the first-passenger entry.

A team led by STA Secretary Chinmayee Biswal and Deputy Transport Commissioner Biranchi Narayan Adhikari inspected over 20 buses across different routes, closely monitoring the behavior of bus staff toward women passengers. Officials also interacted with women travelers to understand their experiences regarding discrimination.

The Odisha government has decided to extend similar inspections and awareness campaigns across all bus terminals in the state to reinforce passenger safety and gender equality in public transport.

Government’s Commitment to Women’s Safety

Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena reaffirmed the government’s stand on ensuring the dignity and security of women travelers.

“Ensuring passenger safety is the STA’s responsibility. Any form of disrespect towards women is unacceptable, and our government is committed to taking proactive measures,” Jena stated.

Principal Secretary Usha Padhee echoed this sentiment, confirming that such surprise inspections will continue to strengthen women’s safety in public transport.

STA Secretary Chinmayee Biswal emphasized that discrimination against passengers is a punishable offense under the Motor Vehicles Act, with provisions for penalties and permit cancellations. However, she noted that today’s inspection yielded satisfactory feedback.

Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur highlighted the cultural reverence for women and urged collective responsibility in ensuring their dignity.

“Women are revered as deities in our culture. Ensuring their dignity is not just STA’s responsibility but a duty for society as a whole. If any such incidents come to our notice, strict legal action will be taken,” he warned.

Additionally, Thakur called for collaborative efforts from social organizations and bus owners’ associations to raise awareness and eliminate discriminatory practices in public transport.