Yesterday, while traveling from New Delhi to Patna on the Sampoorna Kranti Express (12394), I ordered a non-veg thali from the train’s IRCTC pantry as I hadn’t eaten dinner.
The food was excellent, and I was satisfied. But when it came to paying, the pantry staff asked for Rs 150 instead of Rs 130, charging me extra.
I asked politely for a bill, but he said the machine wasn’t working. I stood firm and told him I would pay only with a proper bill, or I’d escalate the matter.
He went to the pantry and didn’t return, nor did the manager. So I ended up enjoying the meal for free!
This is a known scam—if they issue a bill to one passenger, others might demand the same, revealing their overcharging tactics and risking fines.
Fortunately, Indian Railways has, since 2020, enforced a strict “No Bill, No Payment” policy, initiated by Rail Minister Piyush Goyal, which protects passengers from such scams.
Peace!
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