Aadhaar Now Mandatory for Tatkal Train Tickets: In a significant move aimed at curbing ticketing fraud and bringing more transparency to the system, Indian Railways has introduced a mandatory Aadhaar-based verification system for Tatkal ticket bookings. This change is expected to impact millions of train passengers who rely on Tatkal quotas for last-minute travel across India.
Tatkal tickets, known for their limited availability and high demand, often sell out within minutes of opening. For years, common passengers have complained about the near-impossible task of securing confirmed Tatkal tickets, while touts and agents reportedly book multiple tickets using dubious means—including fake accounts and automated bots.
What’s New in Tatkal Booking?
Under the new regulation, passengers will be required to verify their identity using their Aadhaar number while booking Tatkal tickets, both online and at physical ticket counters. During the booking process, an OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to the mobile number linked with the Aadhaar. Only after successful verification of the OTP will the booking be confirmed.
This added layer of security aims to eliminate fake accounts and reduce the influence of middlemen, making the system fairer for genuine passengers.
Why Indian Railways Introduced This Move
Indian Railways has long battled allegations of corruption and manipulation in the Tatkal system. Reports have highlighted how booking agents use software tools and multiple identities to block tickets in bulk—leaving the average traveler frustrated and helpless.
A senior Railway official stated,
“We are taking strong measures to ensure that only genuine passengers get access to Tatkal tickets. Aadhaar verification will serve as a strong deterrent against fraudulent practices.”
By linking bookings to Aadhaar, authorities can track who is buying the ticket and how many they’re booking, thereby preventing the misuse of the system.
How Aadhaar-Based Booking Will Work
- Enter Aadhaar Number during the Tatkal booking process (online or at counter).
- Receive OTP on the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar.
- Enter OTP within the given time window to complete verification.
- Book the Ticket once the Aadhaar verification is successful.
Impact on Passengers: A Mixed Reaction
The move has been largely welcomed by regular passengers who feel disadvantaged by the current booking system. Many say it levels the playing field and brings fairness to the much-criticized Tatkal quota.
However, not everyone is entirely pleased.
Some travelers worry about the extra time it may take to receive and enter the OTP, especially during the high-pressure Tatkal booking window, where seconds matter.
“What if the ticket is sold out by the time I enter the OTP?” asked a concerned commuter.
Indian Railways has acknowledged the concern and assured that technical improvements are being made to streamline the OTP process and minimize delays.
A Step Towards Digital Integrity in Railways
This is not the first time Indian Railways has leaned on Aadhaar for improved services. Earlier efforts have included Aadhaar-based ticket booking, senior citizen verification, and linking of accounts on the IRCTC portal. The latest update is part of a broader initiative to digitize operations and ensure accountability in passenger services.
Railway officials emphasized that this measure is not just about stopping fraud—it’s also about restoring public trust in the system. By weeding out agents who game the system, genuine passengers will now have a better chance of getting confirmed Tatkal tickets.
When Will the New Rule Be Enforced?
While the exact date for full rollout hasn’t been officially announced, Railway sources have confirmed that the Aadhaar verification for Tatkal booking will be implemented “very soon.” The IRCTC and Indian Railways websites are currently being updated to support the new system.
Passengers are advised to ensure their mobile number is correctly linked with Aadhaar to avoid delays during booking. Those unsure can check or update their Aadhaar details online or at nearby service centers.
With this bold step, Indian Railways aims to reclaim the integrity of the Tatkal system and ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency. While minor hiccups may occur during the initial phase, the Aadhaar-based verification promises a more secure and passenger-friendly future for railway ticketing in India.
