Delhi High Court Seeks Government Reply on Lower Berth Booking for Pregnant Women
The Delhi High Court ordered authorities to respond by September 30 to a petition enabling pregnant women to book lower train berths online easily.
The High Court in Delhi has ordered the Indian government, the Railway Board, and the state-run ticketing company to submit an official response by September 30 to a petition demanding that pregnant women be allowed to book lower berths via railway websites and apps.
According to PTI, the petition highlights a gap between the official railway policy, which grants pregnant women priority for lower berths, and the practical ability to claim this right during online bookings.
While senior citizens can easily request lower berths during online reservations, pregnant women are currently forced to visit station counters in person and present medical certificates.
The petition argues that this requirement creates unnecessary hardship for those who need the benefit the most, as lower berths help pregnant women avoid climbing and ease long-distance travel.
The bench noted that the IRCTC booking platform acts on behalf of the railways and directed authorities to explain why digital implementation is lacking.
