Porter's license cancelled after charging NRI Rs 10,000 for 'free' wheelchair at Hazrat Nizamuddin Station

Northern Railways swiftly addressed the issue, permanently revoking the porter’s badge as a disciplinary measure.

The licence of a porter at Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station was revoked after he charged an exorbitant Rs 10,000 from a non-resident Indian (NRI) passenger for wheelchair assistance and luggage handling. The incident, which occurred on December 28, came to light when the passenger’s daughter, Payel, filed a complaint with the Railways upon learning that wheelchair assistance at stations is a complimentary service.

Following an investigation, the Railways ensured the porter returned Rs 9,000 to the family and permanently cancelled his badge. Northern Railways reaffirmed its commitment to passenger welfare, citing a “zero-tolerance policy” for such misconduct.

Payel, originally from Gujarat and now residing in London, was travelling with her parents, Ritesh and Sandhya, and her husband, Samuel. The family had arrived in Delhi on December 21 and planned a trip to Agra on December 28. At Hazrat Nizamuddin station, the porter demanded Rs 10,000 to assist her elderly father, Ritesh, with a wheelchair and carry their luggage to the platform.

After reaching Agra, the family hired a taxi to visit local attractions, including the Taj Mahal. During the tour, Payel shared the incident with Anil Sharma, secretary of the Prepaid Auto Taxi Drivers’ Union. Sharma informed her that wheelchair assistance at railway stations is free, and porters are only permitted to charge nominal fees for their services.

Alarmed by this revelation, Payel and her husband approached the Government Railway Police (GRP) at Agra Cantt station. The GRP, in coordination with their counterparts at Hazrat Nizamuddin station, launched an investigation. CCTV footage identified the porter, who was subsequently ordered to refund Rs 9,000 to the family.

Northern Railways swiftly addressed the issue, permanently revoking the porter’s badge as a disciplinary measure. In a statement, the divisional railway manager (DRM) of Delhi expressed regret over the incident and reiterated the Railways’ commitment to ensuring a safe and convenient travel experience for passengers.

“This incident tarnishes the image of the Railwaysand erodes passenger trust. We have a zero-tolerance policy for such misconduct and will take strict action against those found guilty,” the DRM stated.

The Railways also urged passengers to report any grievances immediately by contacting the helpline number 139.

The railway administration emphasised its dedication to passenger welfare and encouraged vigilance to prevent similar incidents. "We appeal to all passengers to promptly report issues so that we can address them effectively and maintain the trust placed in us," the DRM added.