Delhi High Court Criticizes Indian Railways Over Fatal Stampede

Court questions excess ticket sales and lax enforcement of safety laws after New Delhi Railway Station tragedy that claimed 18 lives.

The February 15 stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in 18 deaths and 15 injuries, with overcrowding cited as the primary cause.
The Delhi High Court reprimanded Indian Railways for selling tickets far beyond the capacity of train coaches, violating Section 57 of the Railways Act, 1989.
Confusion over a special train announcement during the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage contributed to the overcrowding on platforms 14, 15, and 16.
The court highlighted the lack of enforcement of Section 147, which penalizes unauthorized entry into railway premises, as a factor in the tragedy.
The Railway Board has been directed to review safety measures and submit a report by March 26, while compensation has been provided to victim families.