A video showing a woman smoking inside an air-conditioned train coach in India circulated widely online, prompting official action and renewed reminders about the prohibition of smoking on trains and railway premises.
The footage, recorded by a co-passenger, showed the woman lighting a cigarette in the compartment while being confronted by fellow travellers. The altercation began when a male passenger, who was not visible in the video, challenged her for smoking inside the AC coach.
The woman responded by raising her voice and objecting to being recorded. She told the man to stop filming, adding that she would step outside, but the dispute continued as she remained in the coach.
At one point, when passengers threatened to involve the police, she retorted: “Ek kaam kar police ko bula (Call the cops),” and continued smoking. She also said: “Tumhare paison ka nahi phoonk rahi (I’m not smoking from your money).”
The video drew strong reactions on social media, with many questioning the lack of immediate enforcement. In response, Railway Seva, the official account providing passenger assistance, posted a comment under one of the viral clips on X (formerly Twitter). In a translated message, it stated: “The matter has been forwarded to the relevant authorities for necessary action. - RPF India.”
Meanwhile, Moneycontrol.com could not independently verify the authenticity of the user-generated content.
In a separate Facebook post, Indian Railways reiterated the rules on smoking. “Smoking inside trains is prohibited under Section 167 of the Railway Act and violations endanger passenger safety,” the post read. The statement also reminded the public that smoking was banned on platforms and across station premises.
Railway regulations additionally bar the consumption of alcohol both onboard trains and within railway facilities.
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