The clip, which circulated widely on X, shows a priest performing a puja while a group of devotees, many dressed in white, participate in the ceremony inside a train coach. As the video gained traction, many users questioned how a full-fledged religious event could take place onboard a running train.
Northern Railway Issues Clarification
Responding to the growing discussion, Northern Railway clarified that the ceremony did not take place inside a regular passenger coach.
According to railway officials, the event was conducted inside a privately booked saloon coach that had been reserved through IRCTC's commercial booking system. The clarification came after several social media users tagged the railway authorities, seeking confirmation on whether the event had official approval.
The Railways stated that the saloon coach had been legally hired by a private party and attached to the train for the duration of the journey, making the event compliant with existing booking rules.
What Is a Railway Saloon Coach?
A railway saloon coach is different from a standard passenger compartment. These coaches are designed for exclusive use and offer significantly more privacy and comfort. They typically include air-conditioned bedrooms, a lounge area, a dining space, a kitchenette, and attached washrooms.
Traditionally used by senior railway officials and dignitaries, saloon coaches can also be booked by private individuals or groups under Indian Railways' commercial booking policy, subject to applicable rules and charges.
Booking Cost Exceeded ₹3 Lakh
Northern Railway revealed that the private party booked the saloon coach on July 8 by paying an advance amount of ₹3,08,580 through IRCTC.
The coach was subsequently attached to Train No. 12926 Paschim Express for a one-way journey from New Delhi to Mumbai on July 10.
Officials said this arrangement was made through the proper commercial process, dismissing speculation that the ceremony had taken place without authorization.
Railways Says Safety Was Never Compromised
Addressing concerns raised online, Northern Railway emphasized that the religious ceremony had no impact on passenger safety or train operations.
Officials confirmed that no untoward incident occurred during the journey and that the priest seen in the viral video was part of the private event taking place inside the reserved saloon coach.
While the visuals surprised many social media users, the Railways reiterated that the ceremony was held inside an exclusively hired coach and did not interfere with the normal functioning of the train or the safety of other passengers.
