A passenger’s complaint about contaminated food on a Vande Bharat train triggers strict action, with Indian Railways fining IRCTC and cancelling the vendor contract over hygiene violations.
Published: March 26, 2026 8:26 AM IST
Here’s Why IRCTC Was Rapped By Indian Railways
As per reports, a passenger allegedly complained about adulterated food being served on-board. The complaint stated that food was unhealthy to consume as it was not up to hygienic standards. Soon after, videos about unsatisfactory food quality on-board the train went viral on social media. Many netizens demanded strict action against IRCTC, as the company serves food on-board all trains. Also read:Add India.com as a Preferred Source
Vendor Fined ₹50 Lakh; Contract Terminated
Railways didn’t stop at IRCTC and fined the vendor who served the food ₹50 lakh, and terminated its contract with IRCTC. Senior officials said strict action will be taken against everyone involved, adding that the vendor has been terminated immediately. The Railways has served a notice to IRCTC and the vendor from whom the catering service was outsourced. Sharing details, officials claimed, this step will ensure accountability up and down the chain.Indian Railways Serving High-Quality Food
Despite fining IRCTC and vendor, Indian Railways came in defence of their overall quality of food being served on-board trains. According to officials, the Railways serves about 58 crore meals every year, and the complaints received are only about 0.0008%. This percentage includes all kinds of complaints ranging from overcharging to quality of food. Data from the past three years shows that the railways have imposed fines amounting to ₹2.6 crore on vendors following passenger complaints.Indian Railways Continues To Reform Itself
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had recently said passengers can expect new reforms as part of the government’s ongoing “Reform Express”. In 2026, multiple improvements have been brought in by the Railways for passengers. Indian Railways has ordered an enquiry into the matter. Officials said railways will not tolerate negligence towards passengers and service provider contractors will be penalised.Indian Railways Sends A Message To Contractors
Indian Railways has sent out a stern message to IRCTC and its vendors. It is high time that cleanliness and quality is kept in mind while providing services to passengers on trains, especially trains like Vande Bharat Express. Railways announced that if they receive complaints that affect passenger safety, it will not hesitate to take action against the defaulters.Source link
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