Passengers In 1st AC Coach Caught Stealing Bedsheets And Towels, Video Sparks Outrage

A disturbing video has gone viral across social media platforms, showing a family caught red-handed stealing bedsheets and towels from the first AC coach of the Purushottam Express, which operates between Puri and Delhi. The footage captures Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) and railway personnel confronting the family—consisting of a woman and two men—who were forced to reluctantly return the stolen items after being approached on the train platform.

In the video, a railway attendant can be heard speaking in Odia, saying: "Sir, see here, bedsheets and blankets are coming out of all the bags. Towels, bedsheets altogether, four sets. Either return them or pay Rs 780."

When confronted, the passenger attempted to dismiss the incident as an innocent mistake, suggesting his mother may have accidentally packed the bedsheets. The railway staff appeared skeptical of this explanation, with the attendant highlighting the irony that the family was traveling in 1st AC class and purportedly on a religious pilgrimage. The TTE stepped in to warn that such behavior could lead to serious consequences under the Railways Act.

The social media post accompanying the video stated: "Travelling in the 1st AC of the Purushottam Express is a matter of pride itself. But still, people are there who don't hesitate to steal and take home those bedsheets supplied for additional comfort during travel."

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation online, with internet users describing the behavior as "disgusting" and "shameless." Many commenters have called for severe penalties, including permanent bans from railway travel for the offending passengers.

One user expressed their disgust on platform X: "How low can people stoop? These are public resources meant for comfort, not personal loot." Another remarked, "Travelling in 1st AC is a privilege, but stealing bedsheets shows a lack of respect and honesty. Let's value public resources and maintain decorum."

A third commenter advocated for stricter consequences: "Even if they returned, they should still be fined for this criminal act. Until they are punished, this behaviour won't go away. These kinds of people bring us shame nationally and internationally."

Another user offered a psychological perspective: "I have heard about people who are rich enough to stay in five-star hotels and still take small items like linens, pillows, and decorative pieces. Sometimes stealing has less to do with economic background. It's a compulsive behaviour very very commonly found in people."

In response to the viral post, Railway Seva, an official account, commented: "For necessary action escalated to the concerned official."

It's worth noting that Indian Railways provides bedsheets and blankets to passengers traveling in sleeper and air-conditioned classes on long-distance trains to ensure journey comfort. These bedding items undergo regular cleaning and maintenance by railway staff. Passengers are expected to use the bedding during their travel period and return it to staff upon completing their journey.