NFR sets Legal Precedent to Deter Rail Roko Agitations at Railway Tracks

By  Firstdespatch Desk   May 07, 2025

Maligaon, May 7 (FD) In a decisive move to curb disruptions caused by Rail Roko agitations, Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has initiated a landmark strategy combining legal enforcement with financial accountability towards any protest at railway tracks.

Departing from conventional responses, NFR has begun filing civil compensation suits—a rare step in the Indian Railways ecosystem which is aimed at recovering monetary losses from those responsible for obstructing train services. This is being undertaken alongside criminal prosecution under the Railways Act by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), ensuring strict legal consequences for such disruptions.

Under this initiative, two civil suits have already been filed in the civil courts of Alipurduar and Malda, seeking compensation of Rs. 5.94 Cr.  for damages arising from prolonged rail blockades. The move has had an immediate deterrent effect witnessing four planned Rail Roko programmes have since been withdrawn.

The coordinated effort, led by Senior Divisional Operations Managers (Sr. DOMs), supported by RPF and the General Manager’s Law Office of NFR (in the above instance), is being seen as a model of administrative resolve and legal innovation within the zone.

With sustained action and strong institutional backing, NFR in line with IR, is determined to ensure uninterrupted train operations discouraging misuse of railway tracks for agitation. The zone remains committed towards maintaining safety, punctuality and public convenience smooth within railways, while holding accountable those who endanger the lifeline of the region. PRESS RELEASE