A passenger traveling on the Rajdhani Express faced a heavy penalty after providing incorrect age details during ticket booking. The traveler had mentioned their age as one year in a 2AC ticket, which the Ticket Travelling Examiner (TTE) found to be false. Consequently, the TTE imposed a fine of ₹7000, treating the passenger as traveling without a valid ticket.
Why was the passenger fined ₹7000?
The passenger entered an age of one year to likely avail a concession or a specific quota. According to railway rules, providing false information to get a lower fare is a serious offense. The TTE charged the passenger the difference in fare along with a penalty. Indian Railways later supported the TTE’s decision after the passenger filed a complaint.
What are the rules for wrong age declaration?
Indian Railways has strict guidelines regarding passenger information. Since February 1, 2016, anyone found misusing the senior citizen or child quota by giving a wrong age is treated as a ticketless traveler. This means they have to pay the full fare and a penalty. Generally, once an e-ticket is issued, the age or gender cannot be changed online.
New penalty rules coming in July 2026
The government is further tightening rules under the Jan Vishwas (Provisions of Amendment) Act, 2026. From July 1, 2026, the minimum fine for traveling without a ticket will increase from ₹250 to ₹500. Additional penalties will also be applied for those who misuse tickets or provide fake details to defraud the railways.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change the age on my IRCTC e-ticket after booking?
No, age or gender cannot be altered on an e-ticket once issued. Passengers are advised to cancel the ticket and book a new one if there is a significant error.
What happens if I provide a wrong age to get a concession?
Passengers found misrepresenting their age for concessions are treated as traveling without a ticket and are liable to pay the full fare plus a penalty.