Indian Railways to Impose Higher Penalties for Ticketless Travel from July 1
The Indian Railways will enforce stricter penalties for travelling without a valid ticket from July 1, 2026, following the implementation of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. The amendments, published in the official gazette on April 8, aim to curb ticketless travel and protect railway revenue, according to South Western Railway.
The revised provisions under Sections 137 and 138 of the Railways Act, 1989, increase the minimum penalty for travelling without a ticket or beyond the authorised distance from ₹250 to ₹500, in addition to the actual fare. The maximum punishment remains unchanged: imprisonment up to six months, or a fine up to ₹1,000, or both, as determined by a competent court.
The amendments distinguish between a 'penalty' imposed by authorised railway employees and a 'fine' imposed by a court. Court proceedings typically occur only when a passenger fails or refuses to pay the penalty.
Other offences under the Act also carry revised penalties: unauthorised hawking (₹2,000), drunken nuisance (imprisonment for 24 hours or fine of ₹1,000), a male passenger travelling in a women's compartment (₹2,500), and smoking in prohibited areas (₹2,000).
The Railways has appealed to all passengers to travel with valid tickets, follow rules, and cooperate with staff during inspections.
