Agra Railway Division Warns Social Media Creators Against Misleading Content and Unauthorized Filming

The Agra Division of North Central Railway has issued an advisory warning social media content creators and members of the public against publishing misleading, incomplete and factually incorrect information related to railway operations on various digital platforms. The railway administration has expressed serious concern over the increasing circulation of reels, vlogs and videos that allegedly distort the functioning of Indian Railways, portray its operations negatively and indirectly encourage unsafe and unlawful activities.

According to the advisory, certain YouTube channels with large subscriber bases and other digital platforms have been found circulating content that presents railway operations in a misleading manner. The division has observed that some such content is created primarily to attract higher viewership, likes and online engagement, without adequately considering its potential impact on railway safety and public perception.

The Agra Division has emphasised that misleading representations of railway operations can create a distorted understanding of the actual functioning of the railway system and pose serious challenges to public safety. Incomplete or inaccurate information, particularly when presented without sufficient technical and operational knowledge, may generate unnecessary fear and confusion among passengers and adversely affect the credibility of the railway administration.

Unauthorised Filming and Photography Prohibited

The railway administration has clarified that filming, photography or videography within railway premises, stations, railway tracks or train coaches without prior permission from the competent railway authority is prohibited under the applicable provisions of the Railways Act, 1989. Such activities may attract legal consequences and penalties as prescribed under the relevant provisions of the law.

The advisory specifically cautions social media creators against trespassing onto railway tracks, entering restricted areas and performing dangerous stunts or life-threatening activities for the purpose of generating online views and likes.

The division has made it clear that unauthorised entry into operational railway areas and restricted premises is strictly prohibited. Such activities can endanger the lives of content creators and other people while potentially interfering with railway operations.

It has also stated that prior permission from the competent railway authority is mandatory for any filming or photography undertaken at railway premises, including stations, depots, railway yards and workshops. Content creators and digital media representatives have been urged to follow the prescribed procedures before undertaking any shooting activity on railway property.

Legal Action Under Railways Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

The advisory further warns that individuals involved in creating or circulating false, misleading or defamatory content against Indian Railways may face strict legal action.

Apart from the relevant provisions of the Railways Act, 1989, the Agra Division has referred to Sections 356(1) and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with other applicable legal provisions, for action against individuals involved in the creation and dissemination of defamatory material.

The railway administration has reiterated that attempts to distort facts, encourage unsafe activities or cause damage to public property will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

Railways Welcomes Constructive Feedback

At the same time, the Agra Division has emphasised that it remains committed to maintaining transparency in its day-to-day operations. The administration has stated that constructive suggestions, feedback and genuine concerns raised by passengers and other stakeholders are always welcome.

However, it has drawn a distinction between responsible reporting and content that allegedly misrepresents facts, promotes dangerous behaviour or undermines public safety. The division has urged digital content creators to exercise due diligence and verify operational information before publishing videos or making claims concerning railway services and infrastructure.

The advisory comes amid the growing popularity of railway-related content on YouTube, Instagram and other social media platforms, where train journeys, railway infrastructure and operational activities attract considerable public interest.

The Agra Division has appealed to passengers, members of the public, social media influencers, vloggers and digital media representatives to promote a culture of safe, lawful and responsible railway travel.

It has also advised the public to rely on official and verified sources for information concerning railway operations, services and safety-related developments.

The railway administration has underlined that public engagement and constructive criticism are welcome, but content creation must not compromise passenger safety, railway security or the lawful use of railway infrastructure.