IndiaI was harassed on a train. What complaint mechanism exists?
You can file a written complaint with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) or local police under the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act (if a minor), and also use the 'Sakhi' helpline or IRCTC's online portal.
What the Law Says
Indian law provides multiple legal avenues to report harassment on trains, including criminal provisions and dedicated railway safety mechanisms.
Sexual harassment on trains falls under Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, which defines acts like unwelcome physical contact, demand for sexual favours, or showing pornography as punishable offences. The punishment ranges from one to three years imprisonment, plus fine.
If the victim is a child (under 18), the offence is covered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, which mandates strict timelines and child-friendly procedures.
The Railways Act, 1989 empowers the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to maintain law and order on railways premises and trains. RPF personnel are authorized to register complaints and investigate incidents immediately.
Statutory TextWhoever commits any other act of sexual harassment shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
— Indian Penal Code, 1860, s. 354A(2) — Punishment for sexual harassment
Statutory TextIt shall be the duty of the Railway Protection Force to protect and safeguard the passengers...
— Railways Act, 1989, s. 173 — Powers and duties of RPF
What to Do
Immediately inform the Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) or RPF personnel onboard — they must record your complaint in the Train Register and assist in filing an FIR.
Call RPF Helpline 107 or dial 112 (emergency) or 181 (women’s helpline) — all calls are tracked and require escalation within 24 hours.
File a written complaint at the nearest RPF office or railway station within 24 hours; you have the right to receive an acknowledgment receipt.
If no FIR is filed within 7 days, approach the jurisdictional Magistrate under Section 156(3) CrPC to direct police to investigate.
Use IRCTC’s ‘Sakhi’ initiative: lodge a complaint via the IRCTC mobile app or website under ‘Women Safety’ section — it triggers automatic RPF alert.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.