Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation’s (MSRTC) recent decision to introduce female bus workers, called ‘Shivneri Sundari’, on Shivneri buses plying between Pune and Mumbai, has drawn widespread criticism. The plan, which aims to provide in-flight hospitality services, has been labeled as ‘regressive’ and ‘misogynistic’ by several passengers, activists, and political leaders. Many argue that the state-owned transport agency should focus on improving its core services instead of implementing those policies, it reported The Indian Express.
The controversial move was announced after Bharat Gogavale, the newly appointed chairman of MSRTC, presided over the 304th board meeting where the introduction of women employees in Shivneri buses was discussed and approved. This organization, inspired by the hospitality services provided by airlines, plans to hire female flight attendants without charging passengers extra. After the announcement, the official X handle of MSRTC posted a picture of a female employee to promote the scheme.
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However, the decision has faced a backlash, with critics questioning its relevance amid other issues of concern to the MSRTC. Many passengers expressed their differences in opinion, calling it inappropriate efforts that undermine the empowerment of women.
Abhijit Bhosle, public relations officer of MSRTC, clarified that the project is in its initial stages, and recruitment of female guards is yet to begin. “The tender process will start soon, focusing mainly on the field of tourism management. These assistants will accompany the passengers on the Shivneri buses,” said Bhosle.
Public criticism of this move
Despite MSRTC officials touting the scheme as a progressive initiative, commuters and social commentators have voiced strong opposition. A Pune-based IT professional, waiting at the Shivajinagar bus stand to go to Goregaon, Mumbai, criticized the move as retrograde. “Decisions like these take us back to fighting for women’s rights. They give women roles where they are expected to provide food. If they want to implement such a policy, there should be no gender specific roles,” she said while talking to the Indian Express.
He pointed out that the MSRTC should give priority to repairing dilapidated buses and addressing inefficiencies, instead of focusing on superficial changes. “Reservation of women in government buses is commendable, but diverting attention from critical issues such as poor maintenance is not helpful,” she said.
Anand, a resident of Pune who works at Persistent Systems, shared similar sentiments. He criticized the term ‘Shivneri Sundari’, calling it “demeaning and demeaning”. He also expressed concern for the safety of women workers, especially in rural areas such as Nanded and Gadchiroli, where buses often face operational challenges, especially during heavy rains. “Instead of introducing cosmetic changes, MSRTC should deal with pressing issues like leaking roofs and impassable roads,” he said.
Political leaders and experts joined the opposition
The leaders of the opposition parties have also taken up this dispute. Rohit Pawar, MP from Karjat-Jamkhed (Nationalist Congress Party – Sharad Pawar’s party), took to social media to express his disapproval. On X (formerly of Twitter), he said, “The priorities the government sets show its attitude and intelligence. Today…there is a need to focus on improving the condition of ST buses, providing better infrastructure to both ST staff and passengers to improve their lives. However, instead of dealing with these pressing issues, the newly appointed chairman…is introducing programs like Shivneri Sundari,” he said.
Urban transport experts echoed Pawar’s concerns. Bhaumik Gowande, an urban transport planner, criticized the government’s decision as ‘unbelievable and retrograde’. “Unbelievable and Regressive. In 2024, Maharashtra Govt thinks it is ok to demote women to Shivneri Sundari? I have done 500+ trips, absolutely no need for this. My school friend, an aviation officer, is facing stalking me… will Maha gov ensure the safety of women in buses?” Gowande asked.
MSRTC is defending its move amid mounting criticism
Responding to mounting criticism, MSRTC’s Bhosle defended the plan, describing the backlog as excessive. He stressed that people support this idea and that it is one of the decisions taken at the 304th meeting. “Although there are those who oppose it, we believe that people will eventually appreciate this move. At the same time, we are determined to improve the infrastructure of our buses,” said Bhosle.
According to Bhosle, MSRTC operates 100 Shivneri buses, 75 of which operate under the Pune division. The exact time of the introduction of the hospitality service is not yet known, although the organization confirmed that the implementation will begin soon.
First published: October 03 2024 | 5:24 PM IST