From October 1, Indian Railways will introduce a new rule for online ticket bookings. For the first 15 minutes after booking opens, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book reserved general tickets through the IRCTC website or app. At present, this restriction applies only to Tatkal bookings.
The Railway Ministry explained that the step aims to stop misuse of the system by middlemen and ensure fair access for passengers. By making Aadhaar authentication mandatory, officials believe tickets will reach genuine users more easily.
After the initial 15 minutes, authorised ticket agents will be allowed to make bookings. However, this rule does not affect tickets booked at computerized counters of Indian Railways, where timings remain unchanged.
The circular also clarified that agents of Indian Railways will continue to face a 10-minute restriction for booking general reservations on the opening day. This measure prevents bulk booking by agents before common users get a chance.
The ministry directed CRIS and IRCTC to update their systems accordingly. Officials stressed that these changes will improve fairness in ticket distribution and benefit ordinary passengers the most.
