Railway Penalty Update: New fines for smoking and ticketless travel effective from June 20
Indian Railways has introduced strict new penalty rules under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment Provisions) Act, 2026. These changes became effective on June 20, 2026, after a gazette notification was issued by the Railway Board on June 19. The rules were originally planned for July 1, but were moved forward by 10 days to improve passenger safety and discipline.
What are the new fines for passengers
The railway administration has significantly increased penalties for common violations to ensure a cleaner and more organized travel experience for everyone. The following table lists the updated charges:
| Violation | New Penalty/Action |
|---|---|
| Smoking in trains or premises | ₹2,000 (Up to ₹5,000 or jail if unpaid) |
| Ticketless or irregular travel | Min ₹500 + Full fare (Up to 6 months jail) |
| Unauthorized entry in Ladies Coach | ₹2,500 and immediate removal from train |
| Begging or unlicensed hawking | Up to ₹2,000 (Up to 1 year jail for repeat offenders) |
| Carrying dangerous/prohibited goods | Min ₹10,000 + Compensation + Up to 1 year jail |
| Littering, spitting, or nuisance | ₹500 to ₹1,000 (Up to ₹5,000 for repeat cases) |
| Obstructing Railway staff | Up to ₹2,500 and/or 3 months imprisonment |
| Traveling on another person’s ticket | Ticket seizure + Min ₹500 + Full fare |
What happens if a passenger refuses to pay
Railway officials have clarified that these rules are meant to maintain discipline rather than just punish passengers. If a person is caught violating these rules and refuses to pay the fine on the spot, the administration will take direct legal action. Such cases will be referred to a competent court, where higher fines or imprisonment can be awarded based on the offense.
Passengers are advised to always travel with a valid ticket in their own name and follow all safety guidelines. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has been authorized to strictly enforce these provisions, especially regarding unauthorized entry into reserved women’s sections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fine for smoking in Indian Railways now?
The fine for smoking in railway premises or inside trains is now ₹2,000. If the person refuses to pay, the court can impose a fine up to ₹5,000 or order imprisonment.
What is the minimum penalty for traveling without a ticket?
The minimum penalty for ticketless travel has been increased from ₹250 to ₹500. Additionally, the passenger must pay the full fare for the journey.