Indian Railways has increased the penalty for several offenses committed on trains and railway premises. Under the Jan Vishwas (Provision Amendment) Act, 2026, activities like smoking, begging, and unauthorized hawking will now attract a higher fine. These changes aim to improve passenger safety and maintain discipline across the network.
What are the new penalties for common offenses?
The railway administration has significantly raised the spot fines for several violations. The updated charges are as follows:
| Offense | New Fine/Penalty |
|---|---|
| Smoking (Section 167) | ₹2,000 (up to ₹5,000 in court) |
| Unauthorized Hawking (Section 144) | ₹2,000 (up to 3 months jail or ₹5,000 fine) |
| Begging | ₹2,000 |
| Ticketless Travel | Minimum ₹500 + Fare |
| Traveling on another’s ticket | ₹500 + Full Fare |
| Men entering Ladies Coach | ₹2,500 (up to ₹5,000 in court) |
| Carrying Dangerous Goods | ₹10,000 minimum |
When did these new rules come into effect?
The Jan Vishwas (Provision Amendment) Bill, 2026 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 27, 2026 and received presidential approval on April 8, 2026. The Ministry of Railways issued a notification to implement these provisions on June 19, 2026. By July 2, 2026, the stricter penalties became fully operational across all zones.
How will the railway enforce these rules?
Railway staff are authorized to collect these spot fines. If a person refuses to pay the fine, they can be produced before a competent court for further legal action. The Railway Board Executive Director (Passenger Marketing), Shivendra Shukla, has instructed all regional railways to inform their staff to ensure smooth implementation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if someone refuses to pay the smoking fine on the spot?
If the ₹2,000 fine is not paid, the person can be taken to court where the penalty can increase up to ₹5,000. They may also be removed from the train and their ticket can be seized.
Is the fine for unauthorized hawking applicable to licensed vendors?
No, the ₹2,000 fine under Section 144 applies only to unauthorized vendors. Those with a valid license are not subject to this penalty.