Passenger entered incorrect age on rail ticket; TTE imposed a charge—find out the rules..
People usually check details carefully when booking train tickets, but they often overlook the age factor. Sometimes, the age entered on the ticket differs from the age listed on their identity proof. However, this minor error can lead to significant travel hassles. The Railways may even impose a fine for certain discrepancies. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly verify all information and enter details accurately at the time of booking.
**Can a fine be imposed for entering the wrong age on the ticket?**
If the age recorded on the railway ticket differs from the information on your identity proof, the TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) may raise questions during ticket inspection. Under Section 54 of the Railways Act, 1989, a TTE is authorized to check a passenger's ticket during the journey and may also ask for their identity proof. There is no fixed penalty amount specified for an incorrect age; the fine depends on the circumstances of the case and the inquiry conducted by the Railways.
**What to do if the wrong age has been entered?**
Do not ignore the error if the wrong age has been entered on the ticket by mistake. You can try to rectify it before commencing your journey. Although there is no online option to change the age or name on tickets booked via the IRCTC website or app, passengers can—in certain cases—attempt to make corrections by submitting a written application to the Chief Reservation Supervisor at the reservation counter of the nearest railway station, along with a printout of the e-ticket and an original government ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID). However, rules for modifying counter-booked or online tickets are generally limited once the reservation chart has been prepared.
If you have availed of a senior citizen concession or any other fare concession due to the incorrect age entry—and are not actually eligible for it—the TTE may impose a fine or charge the difference in fare.
**Viral case regarding age-related penalty**
A passenger claimed on social media that, while booking a ticket, their age was mistakenly entered as '1' instead of '24'. However, even after this error, he had not availed himself of any fare concession. He also possessed a valid identity card. The passenger claimed that he was charged ₹7,035 during the ticket check; this charge was levied on the grounds of traveling without a ticket.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
