NGOs have long complained of the problems that commuters with disabilities have to face due to illegal travellers. A delegation of activists had met police commissioner Rakesh Maria to inform him of the increasing number of plainclothed cops travelling in coaches for the handicapped. Maria then came out with an order that apart from action under the Railway Act, a cop found guilty of this offence would also face departmental action.
"Cops bully disabled commuters, abuse them and often block the entrance to the compartment. There have been instances where a disabled commuter has had a bad fall while attempting to alight or board the coach. Instances of chain-pulling are also reported the most in coaches for the disabled as genuine commuters travelling in them are left with no other choice," said an activist.
The RPF conducted a crackdown between August 1 to 15 on the Western line. "Some of the commuters caught travelling in the disabled coach argued that they possessed tickets. But they could not produce anything to confirm disability," said an official.
Offenders were booked under section 155 (A) of the Railway Act. The section provides for a penalty of Rs 500. Activists have demanded that the fine be increased to at least Rs 2000 so that it serves as a deterrant.
Cases lodged in the fortnight long drive against illegal travel in coaches for the disabled
Churchgate: 18
Mumbai Central: 173
Dadar: 63
Bandra: 82
Andheri: 441
Borivali: 155
Bhayandar: 61
Vasai: 123
Others: 183
Total: 1299
http://ift.tt/1qgxkwB illegally in disabled coaches,Mumbai Central
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