It happens when you are not aware of your legal rights, which results in listening to whatever you are instructed to do to avoid a penalty or jail. For instance, most of the time end up paying extra charges for not travelling without a ticket on the train. To avoid such situations, we must be aware of legal rights. Let’s explore the steps you can take to avoid such a situation and not panic.
Travelling Without a Ticket: Can you be arrested?
No, the TTE cannot arrest you directly. However, travelling without a ticket is against the rules of Indian Railways. A fine can be imposed for doing so.
Can TTE charge an arbitrary fine for travelling without a ticket?
TTE cannot charge you arbitrary fines. The amount of fine for travelling without a ticket depends on the train, travel class, distance, and other factors. Let us understand this through a graphic.
Arbitrary Fines by TTE: Know your rights to complain
If you feel that the TTE has imposed the fine unfairly, you can complain by sending a message to 155210 or by calling 139. You can complain to the railway officials.
What can happen if you refuse to pay a fine?
If you are not ready to pay the fine, then under the Railway Act, you can be deboarded from the train at the next station. Or you can also be prosecuted. In this, you can be sentenced to one month or fined Rs 500 or both. At the same time, if a passenger misbehaves with the TTE, creates a ruckus, and violates railway rules, then the TTE can inform the railway police.
Can Railways hand you over to police for no ticket?
No, TTE will just ask you to pay the fine or penalty amount. If you do not pay the fine or if you do not cooperate with TTE, then TTE can hand you over to the railway police.
Can you be jailed for travelling without a ticket?
Travelling without a ticket is a civil offense. A fine is usually imposed for this. If you pay the fine, you will not go to jail.
What happens if you refuse to pay fine?
If you do not pay the fine, the TTE can initiate a legal process against you. He can send you to the Railway Police.
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