Is Congress Right to Slam the Modi Government Over Rail Fare Hikes?
Synopsis
In a strong critique, Congress accuses the Modi government of stealthily increasing railway fares, which they argue unfairly impacts everyday citizens. Senior leaders demand accountability and the reinstatement of concessions, highlighting concerns over affordability and safety within the rail system.
Key Takeaways
Recent fare hikes have sparked political controversy.
Congress accuses the government of burdening citizens.
Fares have risen significantly, impacting affordability.
Safety concerns persist amid rising operational costs.
Opposition calls for accountability and action.
New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) The Congress party has sharply criticized the government led by Narendra Modi for its recent decision to increase railway fares, describing it as a sneaky action that places an unfair burden on ordinary citizens.
Senior Congress figure Ajoy Kumar is calling for the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, alleging that he has worsened the state of the national railways.
During a media briefing, Kumar labeled the fare increase—quietly announced through a circular to take effect on December 26—as the second hike during this term (after July 2025).
He noted that under Modi’s government, ticket prices have surged by a staggering 107% over the past decade, rising from 32 paise per kilometer at the end of the UPA government to 66 paise currently.
While the government claims the rise is merely 1-2 paise per kilometer (1 paise for journeys over 215 km in ordinary class; 2 paise for non-AC mail/express and all AC classes), Kumar argued that this actually translates to an additional Rs 100-200 for the typical passenger.
The fare revision is anticipated to yield Rs 600 crore by March 2026, following a previous hike that generated Rs 700 crore in July.
Kumar also condemned the removal of concessions for senior citizens, claiming it has cost them Rs 8,600 crore. He pointed out other fare increases such as platform tickets going from Rs 3 to Rs 50 (with current rates being Rs 10-50 at select locations), train meals escalating from Rs 30 to Rs 120, and parking fees exceeding Rs 500 for stays over 30 minutes.
Referencing reports from the CAG, he asserted that the food served on trains is often unfit for consumption.
Regarding safety, Kumar mentioned that there have been 712 train accidents since 2014, resulting in 768 fatalities.
He contrasted the Rs 1.08 lakh crore allocated for bullet trains with insufficient funding for the 'Kavach' anti-collision system, calling for its immediate national deployment.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge supported these criticisms, accusing the government of exploiting the public while ignoring issues like overcrowding and delays.
The party is demanding a reversal of the fare hikes, reinstatement of concessions, and a focus on safety over vanity projects.
Railway officials defended the fare adjustments as essential due to rising costs, stating that suburban services, short ordinary journeys, and season tickets would remain unaffected to lessen the impact on daily travelers.
This opposition outcry highlights the escalating worries regarding affordability and safety within India's extensive rail network.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significant implications of the recent fare hike. While the government defends these increases as necessary adjustments, the concerns raised by Congress reflect broader issues of affordability and safety that need to be addressed. Balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of citizens remains paramount.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons behind the recent railway fare hike?
The government cites rising operational costs as the primary reason for the fare increase, although opposition parties argue it disproportionately affects everyday commuters.
How much have fares increased under the Modi government?
Fares have increased by approximately 107% over the past decade, from 32 paise per km to 66 paise per km.
What is Congress demanding in response to the fare hike?
Congress is demanding the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, a rollback of the fare increase, and the reinstatement of concessions for senior citizens.
How does the fare hike affect average passengers?
The fare hike translates to an additional cost of Rs 100-200 for average passengers, despite government claims of a nominal increase.
What safety concerns have been raised?
Concerns include 712 train accidents since 2014, resulting in 768 fatalities, and inadequate funding for safety measures like the 'Kavach' anti-collision system.
