Indian Railways serves as the lifeline for millions of passengers every day. People travel by train for work, education, family visits, and leisure. To ensure safety and comfort, the Railways enforces several rules. However, many passengers remain unaware of the regulations related to night travel.
At times, due to urgency, some passengers board a train without a valid ticket at night. This situation often creates fear, especially about the actions a TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) may take.
Is Travelling Without a Ticket a Crime?
Travelling without a ticket violates railway rules, but it is not a criminal offence. Instead, the Railways treat it as a civil offence. Therefore, a TTE cannot arrest a passenger solely for travelling without a ticket. The examiner can only collect the prescribed fine and fare as per rules.
Ticket Checking Rules After 10 PM
Indian Railways generally avoids checking tickets of sleeping passengers after 10 pm in Sleeper and AC coaches. This rule helps passengers rest without disturbance. However, if a passenger boards the train at an intermediate station during the night, the TTE can check the ticket. Waking a sleeping passenger without a valid reason goes against railway guidelines.
If a TTE troubles a passenger unnecessarily, the passenger can immediately complain through the Railway Helpline 139.
Important Night-Time Rules on Trains
After 10 pm, several comfort-related rules apply on trains. Passengers must avoid loud conversations. They must use headphones while playing music or videos. The Railways switches off main coach lights and keeps only dim night lights on. Charging points usually remain inactive between 11 pm and 5 am. In addition, cleaning staff movement stays limited during night hours.
Can Railways Force You to Get Down at Night?
Railways usually do not force passengers to deboard trains at night, especially at unsafe stations. However, if a passenger misbehaves, argues, or refuses to cooperate, the TTE can call the Railway Protection Force (RPF) for assistance.
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