Indian Railways Cracks Down on Misleading Social Media Posts, FIRs Registered Against Circulators of Old Videos
New Delhi, 19th October 2025: Indian Railways has launched a strict action drive against individuals and groups allegedly circulating old and misleading videos on social media platforms to create panic among passengers during the festive travel season.
According to the Ministry of Railways, several fake profiles on platforms such as Twitter (X), Instagram, and YouTube have been found sharing unrelated and outdated visuals of overcrowded platforms, trains, and stations. The ministry stated that these posts were aimed at spreading misinformation and causing unnecessary alarm among passengers.
In the past four days, Indian Railways, through its official social media handles, has identified and flagged over 20 such instances as “Old and Misleading Videos.” Authorities have initiated the process of filing First Information Reports (FIRs) in these cases. Upon verification, the videos were traced to earlier years and found to have no connection with the current travel situation.
Officials confirmed that individuals involved in circulating such content are being booked under Section 145(B) of the Railway Act, which carries a punishment of up to six months’ imprisonment for causing nuisance or disturbance.
The ministry emphasized that no leniency will be shown toward those attempting to mislead the public or damage the reputation of Indian Railways by sharing fake, doctored, or outdated content. The crackdown underscores a zero-tolerance stance against digital misinformation campaigns and reflects the railways’ focus on ensuring safe and transparent communication with passengers during the ongoing festive period.
Several social media users have also engaged in discussions around the issue using the hashtag #YatriJihad, alleging that fake accounts are spreading such posts for engagement without lodging any formal complaints with railway authorities.
