The newest T fare increase was timed to coincide with the introduction of the Charlie Card. (I would have guessed it had something to do with an election being over, but what do I know?)

So why would the T brand an automated fare system with the story of a guy who didn't have enough money to pay his fare -- and then tie the introduction of that system to a fare hike?

I suppose it makes sense since, just like Charlie, a lot of working people now won't have enough money to pay the fare.