During the hearing, the bench of Justices Hassanuddin Amanullah and K. Vinod Chandran was informed that accident insurance is currently available only to those purchasing tickets online. Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee appeared on behalf of the Railways in the case.
The Supreme Court has asked the Indian Railways why accident insurance is only available to those who purchase tickets online, while those who purchase tickets over the counter are deprived of this benefit. The court raised this question during the hearing of a case related to the Railways.
During the hearing, the bench of Justices Hassanuddin Amanullah and K. Vinod Chandran was informed that accident insurance is currently available only to those who purchase tickets online. Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee appeared on behalf of the Railways.
In its order passed on November 25, the court said, “The amicus curiae has stated that only passengers who purchase tickets online are eligible for accident insurance coverage. Why are those who purchase tickets offline not eligible? The Railways will have to explain the reason for this discrepancy.”
The bench also reviewed a report filed by the Railways and stated that it was essential to prioritize the safety of tracks and railway crossings, as this would help address many future problems.
The court scheduled the next hearing for January 13 and directed the Railways to file a detailed report or affidavit on two issues: safety aspects and discrimination in insurance coverage.
