International Women’s Day: No more ‘bad luck’ — Odisha fights gender bias in public transport

Women in Odisha have long faced an unusual yet deeply discriminatory superstition while using public transport. For years, bus operators have prevented women from being the first passengers to board, believing that it would bring bad luck. This practice, rooted in myths, subjected women to humiliation and exclusion, reinforcing gender inequality in everyday life. 

When a woman tried to board first, she was often stopped by conductors and drivers, who insisted that a male passenger must step in first to ward off misfortune. Some even justified this discrimination with religious reasoning, claiming that the bus was a sacred space and that a menstruating woman’s presence could anger the goddess Maa Kali.

This blatant discrimination was brought to light during an awareness programme on the prohibition of witch branding and hunting, where women from various districts of Odisha shared their troubling experiences.

Many had faced outright refusal from transport staff, while others had endured ridicule and verbal abuse when they questioned the practice. Their voices were heard by this author, who decided to take up the issue at the state level.

The issue was first raised at a seminar on the rights of single women, organised by the Odisha State Commission for Women (OSCW) in Bhubaneswar on June 21, 2023. Recognising the seriousness of the matter, the Commission encouraged the submission of a formal petition, which was filed on June 28, calling for intervention from the Commerce and Transport Department of Odisha. 

In response, the OSCW instructed the Transport Commissioner-cum-Chairman of the State Transport Authority (STA) on July 25, 2023 to ensure compliance with a non-discriminatory boarding policy. This led to the STA directing RTOs on July 29, 2023 to issue e-challans against bus owners violating the new rule.

Odisha has since taken a bold step towards gender equality by cracking down on such discriminatory practices in public transport. The State Transport Authority (STA) recently directed Road Transport Officers (RTOs) across the state to take strict action against bus operators who prevent women from being the first passengers. 

Public transport permits are granted with the understanding that service must be provided without discrimination. Any refusal to allow women to board first is now considered a violation of permit conditions and is punishable under Section 192A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. With the new directive in place and extensive media coverage, the response from the transport sector has been largely positive.

Women have started asserting their right to be the first passengers and bus owner associations have issued circulars instructing their members to comply. In several cases, bus staff have proactively invited women to board first, showing solidarity with the movement.

Announcements at bus stands and surprise checks by the STA now reinforce the message against such discriminatory practices, ensuring that passengers and transport workers alike are aware of the change.

This movement has also highlighted the role of positive masculinity in breaking gender biases. Many men, including bus operators and passengers, have stepped up to support and promote gender equality by actively challenging the outdated beliefs of their peers.

Their willingness to stand with women, encourage respectful treatment and advocate for change serves as an example of how masculinity can be a force for inclusivity rather than exclusion. These men have shown that strength lies not in upholding harmful traditions, but in fostering respect, fairness and dignity for all.

Although this directive has led to a significant shift in some areas, challenges remain in ensuring long-term adherence. The fight against deep-rooted superstitions requires more than just legal enforcement. Sustained efforts, including awareness programmes, training sessions and public advocacy, are necessary to bring about a lasting cultural transformation.

Transport authorities must collaborate with women’s rights organisations to educate bus operators and conductors about gender equality. Regular inspections and strict penalties for non-compliance will be crucial in maintaining progress.

Odisha’s stance against gender discrimination in public transport is a landmark moment in the pursuit of equality. By addressing an issue often overlooked, the state has set an example for other regions grappling with similar biases. While there is still work to be done, the collective efforts of authorities, civil society and women asserting their rights promise a future where public transport is truly accessible to all.

The fight for equality continues, but this decisive action marks a significant step forward, reinforcing the idea that every individual, regardless of gender, has the right to travel with dignity and respect.

Ghasiram Panda is the national manager of the Ending Child Marriage Programme of Action Aid India

Views expressed are the author’s own and don’t necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth