Railways probes viral video of passenger performing puja with oil lamp in AC coach
text_fields
Indian Railways has launched an inquiry after a video showing a passenger performing puja with a lit oil lamp and incense sticks inside an AC train coach went viral on social media, raising concerns over passenger safety.
A senior railway official said authorities are trying to identify the social media account that first uploaded the video.
"Once traced, officials will work to identify the train and the passenger involved," the official said.
The one-minute video shows a passenger performing a Hindu prayer ritual on the upper berth of an AC coach with a burning oil lamp and incense sticks. Fellow passengers are heard asking the person to stop, warning that the act could endanger everyone in the coach.
The incident comes after the Ministry of Railways recently tightened rules on carrying prohibited and hazardous items on trains.
In a gazette notification issued on June 19, the ministry brought into force provisions of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, relating to the Railways Act, 1989.
Under Sections 67, 154, 164 and 165 of the Railways Act, carrying inflammable and explosive articles on trains is a punishable offence.
The amended provisions prescribe a minimum fine of Rs 10,000 for bringing or transporting prohibited or offensive goods on the railways. Those found guilty may also be held liable for any loss or damage caused to railway property. Failure to pay the penalty can attract imprisonment of up to one year, a minimum fine of Rs 10,000, or both.
According to the Railways, common causes of fires in trains include inflammable items such as gas cylinders, kerosene, petrol, fireworks, stoves, matchboxes and cigarettes carried in passenger coaches.