Metro – Higher Penalties Introduced for Unauthorized Selling in Delhi Metro
Metro – The Delhi Metro is set to impose stricter penalties on individuals found selling or promoting goods without permission, following a recent legislative amendment passed in Parliament.
New Legal Framework Aims to Decriminalise Minor Offences
Parliament has approved the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, which introduces significant changes to how certain minor offences are handled across sectors. One of the key changes affects the Delhi Metro system, where unauthorized commercial activities have been a recurring concern.
The amendment shifts such violations from criminal offences to civil penalties. This means that instead of facing prosecution, offenders will now be required to pay fines. The move is intended to simplify legal procedures and reduce the burden on courts while ensuring accountability.
Steep Increase in Fines for Violations
A major highlight of the amendment is the sharp increase in the penalty amount. Previously, individuals caught selling goods or soliciting services inside metro premises faced fines ranging between Rs 100 and Rs 400. Under the revised rules, the penalty can now go up to Rs 5,000.
This substantial increase reflects the government’s intention to discourage unauthorized activities within metro stations and trains. Authorities believe that higher fines will serve as a more effective deterrent compared to the earlier nominal penalties.
Focus on Maintaining Order in Metro Premises
The updated provisions specifically modify Section 73 of the Metro Railways (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002. This section deals with unauthorized selling, advertising, or solicitation within metro stations and train coaches.
Officials have noted that such activities not only inconvenience passengers but also raise concerns related to safety and crowd management. By enforcing stricter penalties, the authorities aim to ensure a more organized and secure travel environment for commuters.
Past Incidents Highlight Need for Action
Instances of unauthorized activities inside metro premises have been reported from time to time. In one such case last year, passengers observed individuals distributing religious materials and requesting donations inside train coaches. These incidents have raised questions about monitoring and enforcement within the network.
Officials believe that the revised penalty structure will help address these issues more effectively. By making violations costlier, the system is expected to discourage repeat offences and improve overall discipline within metro spaces.
Authorities Expect Faster Resolution and Compliance
The shift from criminal charges to civil penalties is also expected to speed up the resolution process. Instead of lengthy legal proceedings, authorities can impose fines directly, allowing for quicker enforcement.
A senior official associated with metro operations indicated that the updated rules would strengthen regulatory control. The expectation is that passengers will experience fewer disruptions, and enforcement teams will have clearer authority to act against violations.
Broader Impact of the Legislative Change
The Jan Vishwas Bill is part of a wider effort to reform how minor offences are treated in India. By replacing criminal penalties with civil fines in several areas, the government aims to create a more efficient and less punitive system.
In the context of the Delhi Metro, this change is seen as a practical step toward balancing enforcement with ease of administration. It ensures that rules are followed without unnecessarily involving the criminal justice system for minor infractions.
As the new provisions come into effect, commuters and authorities alike will be watching closely to see how effectively the revised framework improves compliance and maintains order within one of the country’s busiest public transport networks.