Women in Bengal Receive Major Benefit as CM Suvendu Acts

The West Bengal government has announced a major relief for women across the state by introducing free travel in all government-run buses from June 1, 2026. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari fulfilled an important election promise by approving the scheme aimed at empowering women and improving their access to public transport. The decision was officially confirmed through an order issued by the state Transport Department. According to the notification, women passengers will be allowed to travel free of cost in different categories of government buses operating on both short-distance and long-distance routes throughout West Bengal. The move was earlier mentioned in the BJP’s election manifesto during the Bengal Assembly elections and is now set to become a reality. The government believes that the scheme will provide financial relief to women, especially students, working professionals, and daily commuters who rely heavily on public transportation. To make the system smooth and transparent, the government will issue special QR code-based smart cards to eligible women beneficiaries. These smart cards will be used for free travel on state-run buses. Women will need to apply for the cards at their nearest BDO or SDO office by submitting valid identity documents and a recent photograph. Accepted documents for registration include Aadhaar card, voter ID card, school or college ID, PAN card, passport, and driving license. Officials said the smart card system will help in maintaining proper records and preventing misuse of the facility. Until the QR-coded smart cards are distributed, women will still be able to enjoy free travel by showing any valid government-issued photo ID to the bus conductor. In such cases, conductors will issue “zero-value tickets,” allowing passengers to travel without paying any fare. The government described the initiative as an important step toward women’s empowerment and social welfare. The scheme is expected to benefit lakhs of women across urban and rural areas of West Bengal by reducing transportation expenses and encouraging safer, more accessible mobility. With this announcement, the state government has delivered one of its major promises, bringing significant relief and convenience to women commuters ahead of the scheme’s official rollout next month.