2 passengers and only 1 blanket on RAC ticket! Big decision of Consumer Forum, Railways will have to pay compensation of ₹ 25,000

A very important and example-setting news has come to light for the passengers traveling in air-conditioned (AC) coaches of the train. Often, two passengers traveling on RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) ticket in an AC coach are given only one bedroll (blanket, sheet and pillow). But the Consumer Forum has taken a strong stand on this attitude of the Railways, considering it as 'negligence in service' and has issued an order to give compensation of ₹ 25,000 to the victim passenger. The incident took place during a train journey, where a passenger was traveling with his companion on a RAC ticket in AC 3-tier. When the attendant in the train was asked for a blanket and sheet for another passenger, it was refused saying that there is a rule in RAC to give only one set of bedrolls. Railway's argument vs Consumer Forum's strict comments When the matter reached the consumer court, the Railways argued that in a RAC ticket, one berth is shared between two passengers, hence as per the rules, only one bedroll kit is provided. However, the Consumer Forum completely rejected this argument of the Railways. The court highlighted very important points during the hearing: Main observations of the court:

"When Railways charges full AC class fare from both passengers holding RAC tickets, why are the facilities cut? After taking the full amount, it is the legal right of both the passengers to get separate bedrolls and blankets."

What is included in the compensation amount? Considering this argument of the Railways as unfair trade practice, the Consumer Forum has directed the Railway Administration to pay compensation of ₹ 20,000 to the victim passenger for mental harassment and inconvenience. Litigation Cost: Pay ₹5,000. Why is this decision special for RAC passengers? This decision is a big relief for lakhs of railway passengers across the country who frequently travel on RAC tickets. Facilities/Rights Earlier situation Situation after the decision of the Forum Fare collection Railways takes 100% fare from both the passengers Railways takes 100% fare from both the passengers Bedroll/blanket Often only 1 bedroll was given on 1 seat It is mandatory for both the passengers to get complete bedroll kit separately Right to complain Passengers used to remain silent following the rules If they do not get the facility, they can lodge a complaint in the consumer forum If this happens to you too, what to do? Register receipt/complaint with TTE or attendant: If you do not get a separate bedroll if you have a RAC seat in an AC coach, immediately lodge a complaint on RailMadad app or 139. Keep PNR and complaint number safe: Keep your journey ticket and the reference number of the complaint lodged. Approach the Consumer Forum: If the Railways does not resolve your complaint, you can file a claim for deficiency in service at the 'National Consumer Helpline' (NCH) or the District Consumer Forum.