Supreme Court: Theft During Train Ride Not Railways’ Responsibility

The Supreme Court has ruled that theft occurring during train rides does not constitute a deficiency in service by the Railways. The Court emphasized that the Railways cannot be held responsible if a passenger loses their belongings during the journey. In a recent case, the Court set aside consumer court orders that had awarded compensation to a passenger who had lost a significant amount of money during a train ride.

The Court stated that the Railways cannot be held accountable for theft as it is the passenger’s responsibility to protect their own belongings. They concluded that if a passenger is unable to safeguard their possessions, it is not a deficiency in service by the Railways.

Previously, a District Consumer Forum had awarded compensation to a passenger from Uttar Pradesh after the cash he had kept in a belt tied around his waist was stolen. However, the Supreme Court overturned this decision, stating that the Railways cannot be held liable for such incidents.

It is important for passengers to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their belongings while travelling on trains. The responsibility for safeguarding personal possessions rests with the passengers themselves.