Harassment of students on local buses

Every day, countless students from distant areas rely on local buses to attend their educational institutions. Although the law grants students the right to travel at half the fare, the reality on the streets of the capital presents a stark contrast. When students attempt to exercise their lawful right to pay half fare, they are often met with sarcastic remarks, outright refusals, and, in some cases, extreme humiliation from bus drivers and their assistants.

In many instances, buses deliberately avoid picking up students or close their doors and drive off as soon as they spot a student waiting at a stop, as though the demand for a half fare is a burden. These recurring incidents not only make daily commutes unbearable for students but also obstruct their right to what is legally theirs.

Half fare is not a charity-it is a legal entitlement. However, the behaviour of some transport workers suggests they view this right as a personal loss. As a result, students experience delays in reaching their destinations and, in many cases, end up in heated arguments with bus staff, further escalating tensions.

Female students are often the most vulnerable to this harassment. I, therefore, urge the BRTA, law enforcement agencies, and the relevant authorities to take immediate action to end this harassment and ensure that students can travel with dignity and respect.

Progga Das

Student, Department of Economics

Eden Mohila College

proggadas2005@gmail.com