The End of Unwanted Entertainment
Indian Railways is taking a firm stance against one of the most common grievances of modern train travel: passengers playing music, videos, or taking calls on loudspeaker. In a significant move to ensure a more peaceful journey for everyone, authorities
are ramping up enforcement of existing rules, backed by specific penalties for offenders. The Southern Railway zone has been particularly proactive, issuing directives in mid-October 2026 to its divisions to curb this behaviour, which it describes as a 'nuisance' that adversely affects the comfort of others. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a formal enforcement drive that empowers railway staff to take immediate action.
Understanding the Official Rule
The crackdown is based on Section 145 of the Railways Act, which deals with nuisance and indecency. According to recent directives, this section is being invoked to specifically target passengers who disrupt the shared environment of a train coach or station premises. The rule is simple: any audio from a personal device must be listened to through earphones. This applies to music, movies, news clips, reels, and loud phone conversations. The enforcement is especially strict during night hours, typically after 10 PM, to allow passengers to sleep. However, the rule applies at all times, as the core issue is the disturbance caused to fellow travellers, regardless of the hour.
What Are the Penalties?
Passengers found violating these rules face significant consequences. For a first-time offence classified as a nuisance, an offender can be fined up to ₹1,000. In addition to the fine, they may be removed from the train or railway premises by any railway servant and could also be made to forfeit their ticket or pass. The penalties become much stricter for those who don't comply after a warning. If a passenger continues to cause a nuisance despite being told to stop by an authorised railway official, they can face imprisonment for up to six months, a fine that can go up to ₹5,000, or both. This tiered system is designed to act as a strong deterrent against persistent disruption.
Who Enforces the Rules and How?
The responsibility for enforcement falls on several railway officials. Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs), Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, and other authorised commercial staff have been empowered to take action against offenders. This means the official checking your ticket now also has the authority to penalise you for blasting music. To ensure passengers are aware, railway divisions have been instructed to make regular announcements over public address systems at stations and inside trains. These announcements, made in English, Hindi, and regional languages, explicitly warn travellers about the rules and the potential penalties. Notices are also being displayed in coaches.
How to Report a Nuisance
If you find yourself disturbed by a co-passenger's loud device, you are encouraged to report it. The first step is often to approach the TTE or any RPF personnel on board. For a more formal complaint, passengers can use the Indian Railways helpline number 139 or the 'RailMadad' app and web portal. When filing a complaint, it is helpful to provide specific details such as your PNR number, coach, and seat number to ensure a swift response. Authorities have stressed that all complaints regarding nuisance will be taken seriously, as the goal is to protect the comfort and rights of all passengers.
