The Bhojpur District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered Indian Railways to pay a fine to a passenger. This decision came after a traveler with a confirmed ticket was unable to get his seat. The court ruled that providing a seat to a passenger who has paid for a reservation is the primary responsibility of the railways.
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What happened in the Bhojpur case?
Ravi Shankar Pandey and three friends had confirmed bookings on the LTT Patna Express from Vindhyachal to Ara. When they boarded the train, their seats were occupied by people claiming to be railway employees. Despite complaints to the TTE and on social media, the passengers had to travel the entire journey standing. The commission viewed this as a deficiency in service and mental harassment.
What was the court’s decision and penalty?
The court rejected the railway’s argument that this was a law and order issue for the GRP. It stated that under the Rail Act 1989, the railway must remove unauthorized persons from reserved seats. The following penalties were imposed:
- Compensation: ₹20,000 to be paid to the passengers.
- Legal Costs: Railways must cover the expenses incurred in fighting the case.
Other similar rulings and new rules
This is not the first time the railways faced such penalties. In 2022, the Delhi Consumer Commission fined the railways ₹1 lakh for a similar incident, and in April 2025, the Jabalpur Commission ordered a payment of ₹25,000 plus ₹5,000 in legal costs. Additionally, from May 1, 2025, waiting list passengers are not allowed in reserved coaches and can be fined between ₹250 and ₹440.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if a confirmed seat is occupied by someone else?
According to the Rail Act 1989, it is the railway’s responsibility to remove unauthorized persons and provide the seat to the ticket holder. Failure to do so can be seen as a deficiency in service.
Can waiting list passengers travel in reserved coaches?
No, since May 1, 2025, waiting list passengers are not permitted in reserved coaches. Violators may face fines from ₹250 for sleeper class to ₹440 for AC class.