Passengers who lose their belongings during a train journey must know where to report the theft, what evidence to preserve and how to pursue legal action if the Railways refuses to compensate them.
To explain the procedure, Local 18 spoke to Advocate Mohan Tiwari, who practices at the Sector 12 Court in Faridabad. He outlined the steps passengers should take after their luggage is stolen during a train journey and explained how they can approach the appropriate legal forum to seek compensation.
Where to Report Train Luggage Theft Immediately
Advocate Mohan Tiwari said passengers whose belongings are stolen during a train journey should first submit a written complaint to the Government Railway Police (GRP) or the Railway Protection Force (RPF). They should also inform senior railway officials about the incident.
After filing the complaint, passengers must keep the complaint number and a copy of the FIR safely with them. They should also maintain a complete list of the stolen items and preserve the bills and receipts related to those belongings.
According to Tiwari, passengers must subsequently determine whether the Railways bears any legal responsibility for the incident.
If the Railways is found to be legally responsible, passengers can approach the relevant forum or competent judicial authority under the applicable legal provisions. The FIR, complaint copy and other necessary evidence must be submitted to support the case.
Tiwari emphasised that filing an FIR or a relevant police complaint is essential when belongings are stolen during a train journey. Passengers should submit a written complaint to the GRP and inform the RPF as well.
This ensures that the theft is officially recorded and provides evidence that can be used for further action.
Why Purchase Receipts Are Important for Compensation Claims
Advocate Mohan Tiwari said bills, purchase receipts and a list of stolen belongings are essential for establishing the value of the lost items.
If a mobile phone or another expensive item is stolen, its purchase bill can also be submitted as part of the compensation claim.
These documents help establish the value of the belongings for which compensation is being sought.
If the Railways refuses to provide compensation, passengers should first understand the reasons for the rejection and examine the documents related to the case.
Tiwari said passengers can consult an advocate for legal advice before deciding on further action. If there has been a legal procedural lapse in the matter, an appeal or revision may be pursued, depending on the circumstances.
Does the Railway Have a Legal Responsibility to Pay Compensation?
Advocate Mohan Tiwari said passengers can also approach a court to seek relief. However, compensation is not guaranteed in every case.
Whether a passenger is entitled to compensation depends on the circumstances surrounding the theft and whether the Railways has any legal responsibility for the loss.
Passengers should therefore preserve all evidence and documents related to the incident and consult an advocate before proceeding with a legal claim.
From filing a police complaint to approaching the appropriate judicial forum, maintaining proper documentation and establishing the circumstances of the theft are important steps for passengers seeking compensation for stolen belongings.
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