Key Update

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation has summoned Amul and sought an explanation over serious quality concerns regarding the curd served on the Patna–Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express. The action follows a passenger complaint that a worm was found in the food served on the train.

Confirming the development to Indianexpress.com, Virender Bhatti said IRCTC has taken the complaint seriously and initiated strict action against both the train’s licensee and the dairy supplier. The corporation has imposed a hefty penalty and started the process to terminate the contract and blacklist the licensee. IRCTC has also asked Amul to appear on March 27 to explain the serious quality concern related to the curd supplied on the train.

Railway Board Flags Lapses

In a letter dated March 25 to the IRCTC chairman, the Railway Board said it had taken the complaint seriously. The incident occurred on Train No. 21896 PNBE–TATA Vande Bharat Express on March 15, 2026. The Board noted that the presence of a worm in food served to passengers pointed to serious lapses in supervision and food safety standards.

Penalties Imposed

Considering the gravity of the lapse, the Railway Board imposed a ₹10 lakh fine on IRCTC for deficiency in service. The Board also directed IRCTC to impose a ₹50 lakh penalty on the train’s service provider and terminate the contract. According to the Board, the incident reflects gross negligence in maintaining the required food safety and hygiene standards for passengers. Authorities have asked IRCTC to report the action taken against the licensee to the Railway Board.

Source: The Indian Express