Viral Video Shows Enquiry Officer Asleep at Patna Junction
A video of a railway enquiry officer sleeping at his post at Patna Junction has gone viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism. The footage, reportedly filmed on June 23, 2026, shows the officer dozing off at the enquiry counter while passengers are seen waiting for assistance. The incident has raised questions about the efficiency and dedication of railway staff at one of Bihar's busiest stations.
Passengers Frustrated as Officer Remains Unresponsive
In the video, several passengers can be seen standing near the counter, attempting to get the officer's attention, but he remains asleep. Some travelers expressed their frustration, with one passenger remarking, "We have been waiting for over 15 minutes, but he is not waking up. This is a serious lack of responsibility." The video was reportedly shot by a fellow passenger and quickly spread across platforms like Twitter and Facebook, amassing thousands of views and comments.
Railway Authorities Take Cognizance, Initiate Inquiry
Following the viral video, the East Central Railway (ECR) zone took immediate note. A senior railway official stated, "We have identified the officer and have initiated a departmental inquiry. Strict action will be taken against him for dereliction of duty." The official added that such behavior is unacceptable, especially at a major junction like Patna, which sees heavy footfall daily. The officer has been temporarily suspended pending the inquiry results.
Public Outrage and Calls for Better Monitoring
The incident has sparked a debate on social media about the working conditions and accountability of railway staff. Many users demanded stricter monitoring and regular checks to prevent such lapses. One user tweeted, "This is a shame for Indian Railways. Passengers are left helpless while officials sleep. There should be CCTV monitoring and immediate action." Others, however, pointed out the possible exhaustion of staff due to long shifts and inadequate rest periods.
The railway authorities have assured that they will review duty schedules and ensure better supervision. "We are committed to providing efficient service to passengers. This incident is an exception, and we will take measures to prevent recurrence," the official added.
Similar Incidents in the Past
This is not the first time a railway employee has been caught sleeping on duty. In 2024, a similar incident occurred at New Delhi Railway Station, where a ticket clerk was found asleep at his counter, leading to disciplinary action. Such cases highlight the need for systemic reforms in the railway workforce management.
Meanwhile, passengers continue to demand better services and accountability from the railways. The Patna Junction incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by commuters and the importance of maintaining high standards of public service.
