A recent incident aboard an Indian Railways train has ignited widespread outrage after a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) was filmed allegedly demanding a bribe from a passenger in exchange for a seat assignment. The confrontation, captured on video and shared on social media platform X, has since gone viral, prompting discussions about corruption and passenger rights within the Indian Railways system.
In the video, the passenger confronts the TTE regarding the alleged bribe solicitation. In response, the TTE attempts to dissuade the passenger from recording the interaction by asserting, “On duty TT ki video banana, 7 saal ki saza hai” (Recording a video of an on-duty TTE is punishable by seven years in prison). The passenger challenges this claim, asking, “Kaha likha hai?” (Where is it written?), to which the TTE retorts, “Dikha dunga” (I will show you).
The exact location and date of the incident remain unclear. However, the video’s rapid circulation has led to widespread condemnation of the TTE’s behavior and his apparent attempt to intimidate the passenger with misinformation about legal repercussions.
This incident is not isolated. In a similar case, a TTE was suspended after a video surfaced showing him accepting a bribe from a passenger for providing a berth in the third AC coach of the Nauchandi Express in Uttar Pradesh. Following the video’s release, railway officials suspended the TTE and initiated an inquiry into the matter.
Legal Perspective on Recording Public Officials
The TTE’s claim that recording an on-duty railway official is punishable by seven years in prison lacks legal foundation. In India, the legality of recording on-duty public officials, including police officers, is not explicitly defined in statutes. However, actions performed by public officials in the course of their duties are generally not considered private, and recording such actions, especially when exposing misconduct, is not deemed illegal.
For instance, the Kerala Police Act, 2011, under Section 33(2), explicitly states that no police officer should prevent a citizen from lawfully recording any police action conducted in public or private spaces using audio, video, or electronic means.
While this provision is specific to Kerala, it underscores a broader principle supporting transparency and accountability.
It’s important to note that while recording public officials performing their duties is generally permissible, such recordings should not interfere with the officials’ work or violate other laws. Citizens are encouraged to exercise their rights responsibly and be aware of specific state laws and regulations.
Public Reaction and Implications
The video’s circulation has led to significant public discourse. Many social media users have expressed their dismay over the TTE’s actions and his attempt to mislead the passenger regarding the legality of recording the incident. Comments highlight concerns about systemic corruption and the need for greater accountability within the Indian Railways.
One user commented, “TTE caught red-handed with the side hustle! Now he’s giving life lessons like he’s on a talk show!” Another remarked, “Reason why we are still under developing country.”
This incident underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public services. It also highlights the role of vigilant citizens in exposing misconduct and the power of social media in amplifying such issues.
Conclusion
The confrontation between the passenger and the TTE serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in combating corruption within public services. It also emphasizes the need for public officials to be aware of citizens’ rights and for citizens to be informed about the legal frameworks governing such interactions. As this incident continues to garner attention, it may prompt further discussions on policy reforms and the implementation of stricter measures to ensure accountability within the Indian Railways and other public institutions.
For a visual representation of similar incidents, you can watch the following video:
Kalesh inside indian Railways b/w TTE and Passenger over TTE got caught giving seats to passengers by taking money (full Context in the clip) pic.twitter.com/TH1E1S0bVn
— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) February 1, 2025
