New Delhi, Dec 21 (UNI): Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera has launched a blistering attack on the Modi government, accusing it of “surreptitiously” hiking railway fares just weeks before the annual budget. Khera’s remarks come after an internal Railway document—circulated unofficially to reporters on Sunday—revealed a new “rationalised” fare structure set to take effect on December 26, 2025.
Taking to social media, the Congress national spokesperson alleged that the government is attempting to bypass parliamentary accountability by avoiding a formal announcement.
“Govt increasing fares just before the annual budget is one thing, doing it surreptitiously is a new low even by the lowest standards set by Modi,” Khera stated, highlighting the “unofficial” nature of the announcement.
The document detailed a marginal increase across several categories, though it protects short-distance and daily commuters.
The Railways expects to generate approximately Rs 600 crore in additional revenue this year from these changes. To downplay the impact, the document noted that a passenger on a 500 km journey in a non-AC coach would only pay Rs 10 extra.
The Railways justified the hike by citing massive spikes in operational costs, particularly manpower and pensions. Total operational expenses for 2024-25 reached Rs 2,63,000 crore, with manpower costs alone accounting for Rs 1,15,000 crore.
However, Khera and other opposition leaders have long argued that the government focuses more on “PR gimmicks” like Vande Bharat trains while neglecting basic safety and infrastructure for the common man. Khera’s latest criticism follows a pattern of slamming the Ministry for its “lack of sensitivity” toward the millions who rely on the network daily.
Despite the political firestorm, the Railways maintains the move is essential for its “social goals” and to maintain India’s position as the world’s second largest cargo-carrying railway.
Pawan Khera slams Railway ministry’s “Surreptitious” fare hike ahead of Budget
