MSRTC Drops Shivneri Sundari Plan Amid Public Backlash

MSRTC drops Shivneri Sundari plan after public backlash over the introduction of female attendants on e-Shivneri buses. Critics called the move regressive and tone-deaf amid ongoing transport issues.

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has officially withdrawn its plan to introduce female attendants—dubbed ‘Shivneri Sundari’—on its premium e-Shivneri bus services between Pune and Mumbai, according to a Report by the ToI.

The move comes after widespread criticism and backlash from various sections of society, including passengers, women’s rights activists, and political leaders.

The controversial proposal was first approved during MSRTC’s 304th board meeting, chaired by newly appointed MSRTC Chairperson Bharat Gogavale. Drawing inspiration from the hospitality models of the airline industry, the corporation had envisioned a new standard of service by employing female attendants on board.

The plan was also notable for not adding any extra surcharge to ticket prices—MSRTC emphasized that passengers would not bear the financial cost of the enhanced service.

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The idea, announced in October 2024, was aimed at creating a more “refined” and “professional” travel experience. However, it was met with immediate and strong opposition from several corners of society.

Critics argued that the initiative was tone-deaf and misplaced, especially in light of MSRTC’s ongoing challenges such as aging infrastructure, financial strain, understaffing, and inconsistent services. Many questioned the necessity of introducing airline-style service features when core issues remained unresolved.

More significantly, the decision was heavily criticized for being sexist and objectifying. Public figures, commuters, and rights groups slammed the initiative as regressive, accusing MSRTC of reinforcing outdated gender norms by reducing women’s roles to those of cosmetic service providers, rather than empowering them through meaningful employment or leadership opportunities.

“This plan seemed less about enhancing service and more about reinforcing gendered roles. It sends the wrong message,” said a commuter and activist from Pune.

Facing increasing public scrutiny and negative media coverage, MSRTC quietly shelved the plan in early April 2025 before it could be implemented.

A senior MSRTC official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the corporation had “taken note of the feedback and decided not to proceed with the initiative.”

While the decision to roll back the plan has been welcomed by many, it also highlights the importance of inclusive and thoughtful policymaking in the public transport sector.

As state-run services like MSRTC look to modernize, experts suggest that real improvements should focus on passenger safety, employee welfare, better infrastructure, and gender equity—not just surface-level enhancements.

MSRTC drops Shivneri Sundari plan after public backlash over the introduction of female attendants on e-Shivneri buses, as per ToI. https://t.co/6aO918rf4p

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