‘Not allowed’: Viral Vande Bharat ticket video triggers suspension of railway TTE

Indian Railways has suspended a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) after a viral video allegedly showed him offering a Vande Bharat Express ticket at a lower unofficial price. The controversy started after a clip shared on X showed the railway official allegedly discussing a ticket arrangement with a passenger inside the train coach. According to the video, the TTE allegedly offered to arrange a seat for Rs 380 even though the official ticket fare was reportedly close to Rs 700.

What does the viral video reveal

During the conversation, the official can reportedly be heard telling the passenger that the request was "not allowed". Even after saying this, he allegedly agreed to arrange the journey at the lower price instead of asking the passenger to use the regular booking process.

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The video quickly caused outrage online and received responses from Railway authorities, including Railway Seva and the DRM Danapur division. After the backlash, the TTE was immediately suspended while a detailed investigation into the alleged misconduct and lack of transparency in ticket issuing is carried out.

How did social media react

The incident triggered mixed reactions online. Many users criticised the alleged misuse of authority and described the incident as an example of corruption within the railway system.

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At the same time, several users sarcastically referred to such "adjustments" as reminders of older railway travel practices. Some social media users even claimed the TTE was merely "helping" the passenger.

What are the official Railway rules

As per NDTV reports, Indian Railways has strict rules for ticket booking and fare collection. TTEs are allowed to issue tickets onboard only in certain situations, like giving seats to waitlisted passengers or assigning vacant seats. However, breaking official rules or changing ticket prices without permission is considered a serious violation.