The incident, linked to Train No. 15013, gained traction on social media following a video that captured a confrontation between the passenger and the Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) inside the coach.
This situation baffled many as the woman possessed a valid confirmed ticket. However, the issue was allegedly related to railway boarding regulations rather than ticket validity.
According to the Economic Times, the woman had made a reservation from Raika Bagh Junction (RKB). Instead of boarding there, she joined the train later at Pali Marwar (PMY), about two hours after the train left the original station.
At that point, railway personnel had marked her as “NT” or “Not Turned Up,” a standard procedure that occurs when a passenger fails to board from the designated station listed on the reservation.
After her berth was marked vacant, it was reportedly given to a RAC passenger. When the woman tried to reclaim her seat, the TTE informed her that it had already been reassigned. Since her boarding point had not been officially updated in the railway system, she was allegedly required to pay a penalty of ₹ 2,650.
This viral incident has highlighted several railway rules that passengers frequently overlook.
Essential Railway Rules for Passengers
Traveling in reserved Sleeper or AC coaches with only a general ticket may result in a penalty.
No refunds are given for Tatkal tickets unless the train is canceled or delayed by over three hours.
If a ticket is canceled less than four hours before the departure time, a fee of 25% of the fare applies.
The minimum fine for traveling without a valid ticket is now ₹250 along with the fare from the train’s starting point to where you are caught.
Pulling the emergency chain without a valid reason can incur a fine of ₹1,000 or imprisonment.
Smoking in train coaches, restrooms, or corridors is forbidden under railway regulations.
Male passengers entering ladies-only compartments without permission may face a fine of ₹500 or removal from the coach.
Misconduct towards railway staff can lead to a fine of ₹1,000 or even imprisonment for up to three months.
Littering on trains, railway tracks, or platforms is punishable under cleanliness regulations.
Trespassing or walking on railway tracks in unauthorized areas is also a punishable offense, potentially resulting in a ₹1,000 fine or up to six months in jail.
