News Update

CBDT amends Rule 114DA to notify New Form No 49CMarriage trend plummets in China; Down by 20% in 2024Cus - Tata Motors is not required to pay Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) when Basic Customs Duty (BCD) amount is nil: CESTATSteel Secy says No major impact of Trump’s tariffIndia to inaugurate EFTA Desk to enhance Trade and Investment under TEPAI-T - Re-assessment order is invalid where passed without considering assessee's objections to such proceedings: HCTrump trolls Taylor Swift; says MAGA is unforgivingMaha Kumbh: Special Scheme to provide Quality Ration to devotees2 killed & 23 hurt as bus rams into truck in UPI-T - Sec 149 which prescribes limitation period for initiating reassessment against assessee, is not enabling provision but rather prescription on AO's powers: HCDefence sector powering growth engine of Indian economy: RMKorean Air deemed world’s best airline for 2025CST - Transfer of liquor from Rajasthan to Bihar is an inter-state stock transfer and not a taxable inter-state sale, leading to cancellation of Central Sales Tax (CST) demand and a refund order: CESTATPersonal Income Tax - 'Secret' driver for future revenue growthPM Modi may discuss tariff-reprieve with TrumpBudget 2025 - Will the Nudge work?Trump vows to impose 25% tariffs on aluminium and steel imports from all nationsKey Customs Reforms in Budget - Effective implementation will bring all-round benefitsMacron embraces Deepfake videos to promote AI Summit + unfolds plan to invest 109 bn euroPradhan releases Hindi translation of The Saga of Kudopali: The Unsung Story of 1857Tirupati Laddu case - Heads of 3 Dairies arrestedCabinet okays renaming of Waltair as Vizag railway zoneCabinet nod for extension of tenure of National Commission for Safai KaramcharisUnion Cabinet okays Bill to table New Direct Tax Code in Parliament
 
Railways moves SC against HCs' orders describing unauthorised bulk ticket bookings as social crime

 

By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, JAN 13, 2025: DIRECTOR General of Railway protection force, Manoj Yadava said "The recent judgment by the Hon'ble Supreme Court is a landmark decision in protecting the rights of genuine railway passengers. By addressing the misuse of ticketing systems by unscrupulous elements, this judgment reaffirms our commitment to maintaining the transparency and fairness of the Indian Railways' ticketing process. RPF remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that tickets are accessible to all legitimate travelers and will continue to act firmly against those attempting to misuse the system for personal gain. We urge the public to report any irregularities and join us in safeguarding the integrity of the railway system. The helpline number 139 is common for all complaints . Alternatively, irregularities can also be reported through the RailMadad portal. RPF assures passengers of its continued vigilance and dedication to upholding the integrity of the railway system, ensuring a fair and efficient travel experience for all."

The Hon'ble Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment on 9th January 2025, addressing the misuse of ticketing systems and ensuring fair access to railway tickets for genuine passengers. Describing bulk booking of railway tickets as a social crime, the Apex Court held that the provision criminalises un-authorised procurement and supply of railway tickets, irrespective of the mode of procurement and supply.

This judgment is delivered by Hon'ble Supreme Court of India on connected matters of Special Leave Petitions filed by Ministry of Railways challenging the judgements of Hon'ble High Courts of Kerala and Madras. The judgment ensures that railway tickets, particularly for high-demand services such as Tatkal and reserved accommodations, are not hoarded and then sold at a premium by fraudulent unauthorized operators, making the criminal act punishable under Section 143 of Railways Act 1989. The judgment has also extended the ambit of the Railways Act to explicitly include the procurement and supply of e-tickets booked online. Genuine passengers will benefit as the system becomes better safeguarded against misuse.

The effects of this judgment are far-reaching, as it sets a precedent to curb illegal activities in ticket procurement and restore confidence in the railway ticketing system. It ensures that authorized agents and individuals operate within the framework of established rules, promoting fairness and accessibility for all. Additionally, it sends a strong message to potential violators that misuse of the system will not be tolerated, thereby fostering a more equitable travel experience for millions of railway passengers across the nation.


POST YOUR COMMENTS
   



TIOL Tube Latest

Former Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, delivering his Award Acceptance Speech after receiving TIOL Fiscal Heritage Award 2022 on Nov 8 at Taj Palace, New Delhi



Technical Session I - Ease of Doing Business: GST on Digital Economy