Railway Knowledge: If a family member is a public pilot, can you travel for free?

It's often seen on social media that some people try to travel for free in the name of railway employees. But does the family of a loco pilot or railway employee really have such a right? Let's find out the truth.
Relationship with a loco pilot does not entitle them to free travel.

Indian Railways' rules are clear: only a person who is employed or a retired railway employee is entitled to concessional or free travel. Family members of a loco pilot or other railway employee receive a free pass or concession only if authorized by the employee. This means that just because someone's brother, sister, or relative is employed in the railways does not mean they can travel without a ticket. Doing so would constitute ticketless travel and could result in a fine.

Railway Pass Rules – Who Benefits?
Railway employees are issued a Railway Pass or Privilege Ticket Order based on their service period and position. The benefits of this pass are limited to the employee, their spouse, children, and parents. Brothers, sisters, or other relatives are not covered. The pass allows employees to travel with their families for free or at a discounted rate, but the travel must be booked in accordance with the railway's prescribed guidelines. Misusing someone else's pass or identity is a punishable offense.

Strict action is certain if caught.
If someone claims to be a relative of a railway employee and travels without a ticket, they are prosecuted under Sections 137 and 138 of the Railway Act. This can result in not only a fine but, in serious cases, even imprisonment. Recently, several such cases have come to light where passengers gave excuses like "My brother is a loco pilot" or "My father works in the railways," but were caught by the TTE when asked for proof. The railway has clearly stated that using the employee's name is not a substitute for a ticket.

Penalty for being caught without a ticket
A relationship with a railway employee does not exempt you from the need for a ticket. If you truly wish to travel under an employee's pass, an authorized pass or PTO is required. Otherwise, a fine is certain if caught. So next time you travel by train, remember that 'it is not the relationship but the ticket that is the real pass.'

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