India, June 21 -- Indian Railways has increased the minimum penalty for passengers travelling without a valid ticket or pass, raising it from Rs 250 to Rs 500. The move is aimed at discouraging ticketless travel, protecting railway revenue, and improving compliance with ticketing regulations. The revised provisions have been introduced through amendments to Sections 137 and 138 of the Railways Act, 1989, under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026.

When Will the New Rules Apply?

The updated penalty structure will come into force from July 1, 2026. Railway authorities have stated that the higher fine is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen ticket-checking measures across the network.

Under the revised rules, any passenger...