Indian Railways warns passengers over loud music and videos

Indian Railways has warned that passengers who disturb others by playing music or videos on speakers can face penalties, The Hindu reported, as the operator urged travellers to use earphones.

The warning applies to trains and railway premises. Railways also asked passengers to keep telephone conversations quiet, noting that prolonged loud calls and intrusive ringtones can disturb others, especially inside air-conditioned coaches.

The operator cited Section 145(2) of the Railways Act, 1989, amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. The provision covers nuisance and interference with amenities that affects other passengers’ comfort. It provides for a ₹1,000 fine, removal from the railway and forfeiture of the pass or ticket.

A separate escalation applies when a person continues the nuisance after an authorised railway employee directs them to stop. In that situation, the law provides for up to six months’ simple imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹5,000, or both. The warning concerns disruptive conduct and does not mean that every instance of using a phone automatically carries a prison sentence.