Thiruvananthapuram: Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi has stated that the 'Priyadarshini' free travel scheme implemented for women in the KSRTC will be a massive success if financially stable women voluntarily decline the benefit. He remarked that women who are in a better financial position should be willing to buy tickets for their journeys, thereby creating a situation where this benefit reaches only those who genuinely deserve it. He added that the project would achieve true success only when such a spirit of relinquishment is fostered.

Suresh Gopi made these comments by drawing a parallel with the 'Give It Up' campaign introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for surrendering LPG subsidies. He urged the vast majority of financially secure female commuters in Kerala to adopt the mindset of: "I have my own savings, therefore I will not usurp the rights of another underprivileged woman."

He said such a shift in attitude would be the greatest tribute the public could pay to the government and the visionaries behind the project.

He pointed out that ensuring the financial stability of the KSRTC is absolutely essential for the sustainability of the system. While wholeheartedly welcoming the first phase of the initiative, he reminded that a solid financial foundation is required to expand this scheme to more buses.
He expressed hope that the Chief Minister, alongside economic experts like C P John, would formulate an effective plan to steer this forward efficiently.

Furthermore, he called upon everyone to cast aside political differences and stand united for the welfare of the state. He urged the opposition to embrace constructive initiatives and act as a corrective force by highlighting shortcomings.

He expressed optimism that a culture of 'positive politics' is gradually emerging in Kerala, emphasising that the primary objective must be to deliver services to the people, rising above trade union interventions and political disputes.