Passenger Safety / Supreme Court Orders Mandatory Insurance for All Train Tickets

New Delhi, Oct 15: The Supreme Court has directed Indian Railways to make insurance coverage mandatory for all train tickets starting October 27.

The directive applies not only to online bookings through IRCTC but also to tickets purchased at reservation counters, ensuring equal protection for all passengers.

The order was passed by a bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice R. Mahadevan while hearing a petition related to the tragic Bahanaga train accident of June 2023.

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The court emphasized that passenger safety must be prioritized and warned that the Railway Board would be held directly accountable if the directive is not implemented. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for November 16.

Currently, many passengers book tickets online and automatically receive insurance coverage. However, those purchasing tickets offline at counters have been excluded from this benefit.

The Supreme Court’s ruling aims to bridge this gap, extending financial protection to all categories of travellers.

What the directive means

From October 27, passengers buying tickets at counters will also be entitled to insurance coverage. The scheme is designed to provide financial assistance in case of accidents, including death or injury during train journeys.

While details such as the premium amount, types of tickets covered, and claim procedures are yet to be finalized, Railways is expected to issue comprehensive guidelines soon.

The court stressed that the primary purpose of mandatory insurance is to safeguard passengers against unforeseen tragedies. In the event of a train accident, compensation will be provided as per the terms of the policy.