Effective from today, passengers must link their Aadhaar during the first 15 minutes of ticket sales opening. This brief window is designed to prioritize genuine users and prevent touts from snapping up tickets in bulk.

Railway officials explained that the change will benefit common passengers by ensuring fair access to seats, especially during peak travel seasons. After the initial 15 minutes, bookings can proceed without Aadhaar, providing flexibility for those who might face verification issues. The system integrates seamlessly with the UIDAI database, allowing quick authentication via OTP or biometrics.

Commuters have mixed reactions. While many welcome the anti-fraud measure, others worry about technical glitches or exclusion of those without Aadhaar. "It's a good step to stop scalpers, but what if the server crashes in those crucial minutes?" asked Rajesh Kumar, a frequent traveler from Delhi.

This policy aligns with broader government efforts to digitize services and enhance security. IRCTC has assured users that data privacy will be maintained, and support helplines are available for assistance. As millions rely on trains daily, this could reshape how Indians plan their journeys, potentially reducing the chaos at counters.