**Odisha: Viral Video Sparks Outrage Over Alleged Theft of Railway Bedsheets on Purushottam Express**
A viral video from Odisha has ignited public outrage after showing a family allegedly caught stealing bedsheets from the first-class AC coach of the Purushottam Express. The incident, reportedly recorded on the platform after the train’s arrival, highlights a rather unusual but serious case of theft involving railway property.
**About the Purushottam Express**
The Purushottam Express is a superfast train running between Puri in Odisha and New Delhi. It is one of the most in-demand routes, passing through several states including Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh.
**Viral Video Shows Drama Over Stealing Bedsheets**
In the video shared on X by user Bapi Sahoo, a family of three, including a woman, is seen surrounded by two Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) and other railway staff. The officials can be heard confronting the family over allegations that they tried to sneak bedsheets into their luggage.
The woman appears reluctant as she pulls out bedsheets from a bag, while the men accompanying her avoid giving clear answers. Sahoo captioned the video:
“Traveling in 1st AC of Purushottam Express is a matter of pride itself. But still people are there who don’t hesitate to steal and take home those bedsheets supplied for additional comfort during travel.”
While the clip has gone viral, details about when and where exactly the incident took place remain unconfirmed. Additionally, authorities have not released any official statement regarding whether any action was taken against the accused passengers.
**What Happens If a Passenger Is Found Stealing Railway Property?**
Passengers travelling in AC coaches are provided with linen items such as bedsheets, blankets, and pillows to enhance their travel comfort. However, these items must be returned at the end of the journey.
Railway officials emphasize that stealing or damaging railway property is a punishable offense under the Indian Railways Act, 1966. According to Section 3 of the act:
– A first-time offender may face up to one year of imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both.
– For repeat or serious violations, the punishment can extend to up to five years in prison along with a higher fine.
To prevent such incidents, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel regularly conduct checks on trains and platforms.
Passengers are urged to return all provided linen items at the end of their journey to avoid any legal trouble.
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*Stay tuned for updates on this story as more information becomes available.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/viral-video-shows-family-being-confronted-for-stealing-railway-bedsheets-on-purushottam-express-find-out-what-the-consequences-are-of-such-theft