Indian Railways has launched a major reform to its judicial process in the Khagaria and Saharsa regions, allowing passengers and commuters to resolve minor legal infractions directly at the Saharsa Railway Station. This initiative effectively removes the long-standing requirement for individuals to travel to the Khagaria railway court for petty offenses, significantly easing the burden on both the traveling public and the judicial system.
- Direct resolution: Minor railway offenses can now be settled at the Saharsa RPF post on Platform No. 3.
- 24/7 access: The facility is operational around the clock, including night hours.
- Expanded authority: RPF officers from the rank of Assistant Sub-Inspector and above can now handle bail and fine payments.
- Increased fines: The minimum fine for minor offenses has been revised from ₹250 to ₹500.
Streamlining Justice Under Jan Vishwas Adhiniyam
Implemented as of August 11, 2026, this directive empowers local RPF personnel to handle cases involving unauthorized entry, ticketless travel, illegal vending, smoking, and littering. By leveraging the provisions of the ‘Jan Vishwas Adhiniyam,’ the Railways aims to decentralize the justice process. Previously, individuals caught in these minor offenses faced the logistical challenge of traveling to the Khagaria railway court, which often resulted in significant time loss and unnecessary travel expenses.
Reducing Burden on Railway Magistrates
Beyond passenger convenience, this move is designed to alleviate the heavy workload currently placed on railway magistrates, who often manage vast jurisdictions. By allowing on-the-spot resolution for petty infractions at the Saharsa Station RPF post, the Ministry of Railways is fostering a more efficient and user-friendly legal environment. This shift ensures that the judicial system remains focused on more serious matters while providing a swift, transparent mechanism for minor violations. For passengers, this means a simplified process where legal matters are resolved immediately, preventing the need for future court dates or distant travel.