What are the possible steps that could be taken in case a theft occurs on a Train/Railways?

 

Introduction

 

It is a common affair to hear that theft has occurred on a Train. We read it in the newspapers, we hear about it from our acquaintances etc. And what does the person who loses his/her articles in the theft get? In 99% of the cases, nothing. It is a pity to say that there are near to negligible efforts by the Indian Railways in relation to the safety and security of the passengers.

 

In this backdrop, it becomes imperative that the people should know the remedies and the legal juxtaposition in this regard.

 

Possible Immediate Steps

 

1. If there are any injuries, seek medical assistance from the nearby passengers and as soon as possible, make efforts to intimate the TTE and if he could not be traced, intimate any Train Staff who is available in the vicinity.

 

2. Inspect whether the latches of the doors of the coach are in place or not and inform the TTE of the Theft, the articles lost and any consequent wrongdoing that has occurred with you.

 

3. Apart from it, lodge complaint on the Railway Helpline Numbers or Social Media Handles or their Email Addresses. Make sure that you keep a record of the same.

4. Wherever you get down, make sure to inform about the same to the Railway Police Station and they shall register the complaint.

 

Facts that could be brought to the knowledge of the Police

 

1. Whether the TTE or the Railway Staff was present in the Coach or the Train in which the alleged incident occurred.

2. Whether the latches of the doors of the coach in which the incident took place are in place or not.

3. Whether the Railway Staff/TTE was cooperative with you.

4.Whether there were any unauthorized passengers visible to you in the Train or in your Coach.

 

After this, gather all the receipts and evidence in relation to the all the articles lost and the harm suffered. Approach a lawyer as soon as possible and do not forget to prefer a Consumer Case against the Railways to seek compensation and damages.

 

In the next post, I will provide the relevant judicial pronouncements in relation to responsibility of the Railways in cases of Thefts in Trains and Consumer Disputes. 

Stay tuned!