On the sacred occasion of Pooranmashi, large groups of Sikh pilgrims (Sewak Jatha) travel to Manmad Gurudwara Sahib with confirmed reserved tickets. These pilgrims, mainly women, perform Kirtan, recite Gurbani, and serve Langar during their spiritual journey
Representational Image
Bal Malkit Singh, Executive Chairman of the Maharashtra State Punjabi Sahitya Academy (Government of Maharashtra), has written to the Chairman of the Railway Board, drawing urgent attention to the misuse of reserved coaches on Train No. 11012 Dhule–CSMT Express (08:40 AM departure from Manmad Junction).
On the sacred occasion of Pooranmashi, large groups of Sikh pilgrims (Sewak Jatha) travel to Manmad Gurudwara Sahib with confirmed reserved tickets. These pilgrims, mainly women, perform Kirtan, recite Gurbani, and serve Langar during their spiritual journey.
However, it has been reported that unauthorized and ticketless travelers forcibly enter reserved coaches, causing severe inconvenience to genuine passengers and creating an unpleasant environment, particularly for women and elderly pilgrims.
In his representation, Singh urged the Railway Board to:
- Ensure strict enforcement of reservation rules in all reserved coaches.
- Deploy Railway Police (RPF/GRP) at Manmad and en route stations to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Impose penalties on ticketless and non-reservation travelers entering reserved compartments.
- Allow local/general ticket passengers only in general coaches, as designated.
Speaking on the issue, Bal Malkit Singh said: “Pilgrims traveling with confirmed bookings for Pooranmashi are being harassed and denied their rightful seats due to unauthorized entry in reserved coaches. This not only disrupts their devotional practices but also causes discomfort to women and elderly passengers. I strongly urge the Railway Board to take immediate corrective measures and ensure safe, disciplined travel for all.”
The matter has been formally escalated, and it is hoped that Railway authorities will act swiftly to safeguard the rights of reserved passengers and maintain sanctity in such spiritual journeys.
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