Women's Day 2025: Major laws of Indian Railways that every female passenger should know
The Indian Railways Act 1989 (Section 139) is to make your journey safe and stress-free. If you are caught without a ticket, then here are the rules for safe travel, which are given to you by the railways.
International Women's Day 2025 Indian Railways Laws: Even today, many women are worried about traveling alone by bus or train. If they have to travel alone, then their family first ensures that the train is of the day. Apart from this, in the coach in which she is, only family members should be sitting on the berth next to her so that the female passenger can feel comfortable and safe. From time to time, family members keep calling them till the woman reaches her destination. This is because many people are not aware of those laws of the railways which have been made for the safety and convenience of women passengers.
Dear Sisters, Mothers and Aunties, if you are travelling alone by train then don't worry. Indian Railways is with you. Indian Railway Act 1989 (Section 139) is there to make your journey safe and stress free. Even if you are caught without a ticket, here are the rules for safe travel which are given to you by the railways.
No one can kick you out of the train
If you are ever in a situation where you don't have a train ticket, the TTE (Train Ticket Examiner) cannot kick you out of the train like the villains of Bollywood. You can continue your journey by paying the fine and even if you can't pay, you cannot be forcibly kicked out of the train unless there is a lady constable present there.
No men in ladies coach
Entry of men in ladies coach is strictly prohibited. If an unknown person decides to play daredevil and enters the ladies coach, he can be legally prosecuted. So if you see any unwanted guest, do not hesitate to report it.
No entry for army too
No army personnel can enter the women's coach either. Section 311 makes it clear that women's coaches are only for women. Be it any high rank or uniformed army officer.
Boys below 12 years allowed
Yes, you heard it right. As per section 162, boys below 12 years can travel in women's coach with their mother, sister or guardian. So if you see a little boy in your coach, he is probably travelling with his mother.
Reserved berths for women
Travelling alone in a long-distance train? Indian Railways has reserved six berths for women in the third tier AC (3AC) of Garib Rath, Rajdhani, Duronto and sleeper class (mail/express trains) of fully air-conditioned express trains. You don't need to travel alone to get a women's reserve quota ticket, a group of women can also avail it.
Safety during travel
Indian Railways has enhanced its security with CCTV cameras inside trains and at stations, 24/7 station monitoring rooms and Meri Saheli (launched in 2020) to help women passengers from boarding to reaching the destination. If you ever feel unsafe, just contact the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Contact 139 for railway emergencies, security issues or any help during travel.