Family caught stealing bed sheets and towels from 1st AC coach of train

By Sagaya Fernando | September 22, 2025

Puri, Odisha, INDIA: A video showing a family stealing bedsheets and towels from the first-class AC coach of the Purushottam Express has gone viral, sparking outrage on social media.

The incident took place on the Puri–Delhi route when Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) and railway staff confronted the family—consisting of a woman and two men—on the platform. In the clip, a railway attendant can be heard saying in Odia: “Sir, see here, bedsheets and blankets are coming out of all the bags. Towels, bedsheets altogether, four sets. Either return them or pay ₹780.”

The passengers were seen reluctantly returning the stolen items after being caught. One of the men claimed it was an “honest mistake,” suggesting that his mother may have accidentally packed the bedsheets. The railway staff, however, appeared unconvinced. The TTE intervened, warning that the matter could escalate under provisions of the Railways Act.

The video, shared widely online, drew sharp criticism from users who described the act as “shameless” and “disgusting.” Many demanded strict punishment, including lifetime bans from train travel.

“Travelling in 1st AC is a privilege, but stealing bedsheets shows a complete lack of respect and honesty,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Even if they returned the items, they must be fined. Until people are punished, this behaviour will continue.”

Several others pointed out that such behaviour is not linked to financial background but to compulsive habits. “Even wealthy people in five-star hotels are known to take items like linens and decorative pieces. Stealing is often more about behaviour than need,” one comment read.

Responding to the viral post, Railway Seva, the official customer service account of Indian Railways, confirmed that the matter had been escalated to concerned officials for necessary action.

Bedding Policy

Indian Railways provides blankets, bedsheets, and towels to passengers travelling in AC and sleeper classes on long-distance trains. These items are regularly cleaned and maintained, and passengers are expected to return them at the end of their journey.