Central Railway authorities have identified and taken legal action against a woman whose video demonstrating unconventional cooking methods aboard an express train sparked widespread concern about passenger safety.
Viral Video Sparks Railway Investigation
Saritatai Lingayat, a resident of Chinchwad, has been officially charged under Section 154 of the Railways Act for potentially endangering fellow passengers. The case emerged after her video demonstrating instant noodle preparation using an electric kettle inside an air-conditioned coach gained massive traction across social media platforms.
According to Central Railway officials, the incident occurred on October 16 during Lingayat's journey from Haridwar to Pune aboard the 07364 special train. The Instagram influencer, who commands over 150,000 followers, was traveling in coach B2, occupying seats 65 to 68, when she plugged an electric kettle into the mobile/laptop charging socket.
The Incident and Subsequent Apology
The controversial footage, which Lingayat uploaded on November 20, showcased her preparing both tea and noodles while the train was in motion. The video rapidly circulated across Instagram, X, and other digital platforms, prompting immediate verification and legal proceedings from CR's Mumbai division.
Railway officials emphasized that Lingayat released an apology video only after authorities traced her identity and initiated formal action. In her clarification statement, the influencer explained that the recording was made nearly two months earlier during her return journey from Kedarnath-Badrinath.
Lingayat defended her actions by stating she heated water because a patient traveling with her group required hot water on Ekadashi. She further elaborated that a fellow passenger observing the fast had requested tea mixed with rock sugar, which she prepared and distributed among six to seven passengers.
Legal Consequences and Public Response
The situation escalated when a young girl subsequently requested noodles, leading Lingayat to cook a small portion in the electric kettle. "The children then insisted that the video be uploaded on Instagram. I had no bad intentions," she stated in her defense.
In her apology reel, Lingayat expressed remorse, stating, "I made a big mistake. A mother never harms her children. You should not repeat what I did." She additionally clarified that she bore no ill-will toward those who circulated the clip online.
This incident highlights the serious consequences of compromising safety protocols aboard Indian Railways, serving as a cautionary tale for social media enthusiasts who might prioritize content creation over public safety regulations.
