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1 hour ago
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Vande Bharat Express Ticket Checking Controversy: A travelling ticket examiner (TTE) on a Vande Bharat Express has been suspended after a viral video allegedly showed him offering a train seat at an unofficial price of Rs 380, even though the reported fare for the journey was around Rs 750. The incident sparked outrage online, prompting a quick response from railway authorities.
What happened in the viral video?
The controversy began after a video surfaced on social media platform X, where a passenger allegedly recorded a conversation with the TTE inside a Vande Bharat coach. In the clip, the railway staff member can reportedly be heard saying he could arrange a seat for Rs 380, instead of the official fare. During the exchange, the passenger is also heard negotiating the amount and reportedly offering Rs 500.
Reports suggest the TTE allegedly admitted that the arrangement was “not allowed”, but still appeared willing to facilitate the travel outside the regular booking system. The full context of the conversation, however, remains unclear.
Railways responds, suspends TTE
After the clip went viral and drew criticism online, Indian Railways acted swiftly. Railway authorities, including Railway Seva and the Danapur division, acknowledged the issue and confirmed that the TTE had been placed under suspension pending investigation.
Railways said while TTEs are authorised to allot vacant seats or issue onboard tickets in certain situations, any unofficial payment or deviation from prescribed fare rules is considered a serious violation.
Social media divided over the incident
The viral clip triggered mixed reactions online. While many users criticised the alleged misconduct and raised concerns about corruption in railway services, some social media users argued that the TTE may have been trying to “help” a passenger secure a seat at a lower price. Others said such informal arrangements undermine transparency and fairness for passengers booking tickets through official channels.
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