Thu Jun 26 18:23:43 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
This is a news article from The Hindu, published on June 26, 2025, reporting on former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam’s criticism of the central government’s reported plan to raise rail fares. Panneerselvam argues this would disproportionately affect the poor and downtrodden, especially since the Railways are already generating more revenue from increased air-conditioned coach usage and the suspension of senior citizen concessions. He deems the fare increase unacceptable.
**News Article:**
**Former Chief Minister Condemns Potential Rail Fare Hike**
*Chennai, June 26, 2025* – Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam has strongly urged the Central government to abandon its rumored plans to increase rail fares, citing the disproportionate impact on the country’s most vulnerable citizens. In a statement released Thursday, Panneerselvam argued that the proposed increase would severely affect the poor and downtrodden who rely on affordable rail travel.
Panneerselvam pointed to the Railways’ already increased revenue stream, derived from a greater number of air-conditioned coaches and the controversial suspension of senior citizen concessions. He argued that these factors negate the need for a further fare hike.
“It is unacceptable to increase the rail fare yet again,” Panneerselvam stated. “Senior citizens have been paying full fare due to the decision of the Railways. The poor, who usually travel in ordinary coaches, are being forced to travel by air-conditioned coaches.”
The statement comes amid growing concerns over the rising cost of living and the potential impact of policy changes on the economically disadvantaged. The government has yet to officially confirm the reported rail fare increase.
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