Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed shock over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s claim that Karnataka’s Shakti scheme, which offers free bus travel for women, has reduced Namma Metro’s revenue. Shivakumar highlighted that Namma Metro’s revenue reached ₹130 crore in the past year, with a 30% increase in footfall. He asserted that the Shakti scheme, aimed at alleviating women’s financial burdens, has not negatively impacted metro finances. Shivakumar emphasized the scheme’s success, noting women make 60 lakh daily trips and other states are considering similar initiatives.