Indian Railways Denies Chhattisgarh Congress Special Train Request
SECR denies Chhattisgarh Congress's request for a special train to Delhi, citing time restrictions. The party plans to use buses instead.
Indian Railways has officially rejected a request from the Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee (CPCC) for a Full Tariff Rate (FTR) special train. The train was intended to transport party leaders and workers to New Delhi for the upcoming 'Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod' rally, which is scheduled to take place at Ramlila Maidan on November 1, 2026.
Reason for the Rejection
The South East Central Railway (SECR) provided a formal response regarding the denial. According to officials, the primary reason for the refusal is a "notified time restriction period."
Amit Singh, the Deputy Chief Operations Manager (FOIS & CHG), stated that the requested travel dates of October 30 and November 1 fall within a window where special train bookings are restricted. The railway authorities advised the committee to look into rescheduling their transit outside of this restricted timeframe, provided the new dates align with standard regulations and operational feasibility.
Political Tension Mounts
The decision has sparked significant political debate. Malkit Singh Gaindu, the CPCC In-charge General Secretary, criticized the railway's stance, accusing the central BJP government of using its administrative authority to obstruct the participation of opposition members in the scheduled protest.
Congress Outlines Massive Alternative Plan
Despite the setback regarding the special train, the Chhattisgarh Congress has affirmed its commitment to ensuring a large-scale presence at the Delhi rally. On October 28, 2026, the party announced that it has secured alternative means of transport to move its delegation to the national capital.
To ensure more than 5,000 workers and leaders reach the demonstration, the party has organized the following logistics:
- Luxury Buses: Over 30 luxury buses have been arranged for the journey.
- Regular Trains: The party will utilize standard commercial train services.
- Air Travel: Commercial flights will be used for certain members.
- Private Vehicles: Private transport will also be utilized to complete the journey.