Cuttack: The Odisha State Transport Authority (STA) officials on Tuesday conducted marathon inspection at Netaji Bus Terminal here.
Following a directive from Minister of Commerce & Transport Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, STA Secretary Chinmayee Biswal and Deputy Transport Commissioner Biranchi Narayan Adhikari visited the bus terminal this morning monitored over 20 buses across different routes, closely observing the behaviour of bus staff towards women passengers.
Additionally, they interacted with several women travellers at the terminal to understand their experiences regarding discrimination.
The Minister had ordered for strict action against superstitions and discriminatory practices such as denying women the first-passenger entry.
“As per government instructions, team conducted an inspection at the Cuttack bus terminal today. According to the Motor Vehicles Act, any form of discrimination against passengers is a punishable offense. The regulations also include provisions for penalties and permit cancellations. However, today’s survey revealed satisfactory feedback,” the STA Secretary stated.
Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur emphasized, “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. No one should mistreat women. If such incidents come to our notice, strict legal action will be taken as per government directives”.
He also highlighted the importance of awareness initiatives alongside inspections and called for support from social organisations and bus owners’ associations.
Principal Secretary of the department, Usha Padhee, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of passengers. She confirmed that such surprise inspections will continue in the future to ensure safety of women in public transport.
Jena also welcomed the inspection process. “Ensuring passenger safety is the responsibility of the STA. Especially when it comes to the dignity of women, our government is committed to taking proactive measures. Any form of disrespect towards women is unacceptable,” he said, adding that it will be extended to all bus terminals in the coming days.
