MP buses to have a seat reserved for lactating mothers

Ensuring the privacy of lactating mothers, the Madhya Pradesh government has ordered bus operators in the state to reserve a seat covered with curtains from all sides for such women passengers.

"A seat will be reserved in all passenger buses for mothers breastfeeding their children. Orders to this effect have been issued and officials concerned have been asked to implement it," Minister for Home and Transport Bhupendra Singh said today.

He said the first seat behind the driver seat in all buses, including private ones, has been reserved for the purpose. It will be covered from all three sides and the operator would make the necessary arrangements for it.

Singh said the Transport Department has taken the decision keeping in view the women's dignity.

"There is need to maintain women's dignity while travelling in the buses," he added.
The minister informed that the terms and conditions regarding the arrangement will be linked to new, permanent and temporary bus permit.