Davangere, Dec 26 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday criticised the Centre for hiking railway passenger fares, saying BJP leaders in the state were not questioning the increase despite it placing an additional burden on the common people. 
Speaking to reporters here, he stated that the central government had once again raised train travel fares, but leaders of the BJP in Karnataka were maintaining silence on the issue.
Replying to a query on the bus–truck collision near Hiriyur in Chitradurga district, Siddaramaiah said preliminary information from the police suggested that the accident occurred due to the fault of the truck driver. He said the truck, which was coming from the opposite direction, crossed the median and rammed into the bus.
Four women, a child and the truck driver were killed in the accident, he said, adding that it was essential for buses to strictly follow all safety measures. An investigation into the incident would be conducted, he assured.
The Chief Minister also said that he would be leaving for New Delhi later in the day to participate in the Congress Working Committee meeting.