Passengers boarding an Indian Railways coach where the side lower berth remains the most sought-after seat (Freepik)
Side lower berth in Indian Railways that gives it a kind of desirability for generations of passengers. A quick access, a view through the window, and sparing one such passenger from climbing up and down. Recently, a viral post on social media has reignited the debate over who deserves the berth the long-awaited debate on this important issue.
A traveler recently bragged about securing a side lower berth under the stress of Tatkal booking. As he expected, it was short lived. Some nearby couple conspired quietly to push him to change to the upper berth. In no time, the woman directly approached him bluntly with, ''Tu upar chala ja bhai''.
Got the side upper seat, don't want to give it up
byu/chad_zeus inindianrailways
ALSO READ: From Mumbai to Konkan Travel Gets a Boost: Ro-Ro Ferry Set to Launch Sept 1
However, instead of giving in, the passenger chose to defend his claim. He pretended very smartly to be indisposed and mentioned that if he felt sick, he would not be able to climb down. The excuse worked. Without further negotiations, the woman climbed herself and left him undisturbed for the remaining nine hours.
The huge number of readers responding to this post enlivened the hot debate across the internet. Many appreciated his act of refusing, saying bad behavior should not get rewarded. Common people said that if they had been asked with courtesy, they'd happily swap their berths, but they would deny that if it were with entitlement.
ALSO READ: Vaishno Devi Death Toll Hits 32, Administration Slammed for Ignoring Warnings
Others shared their own stories, reminiscing about a time they resisted that kind of demand. A few stated that there were cases when they yielded the berth to an aged family member. The general sentiment in most people's responses was clear-the choice should lie with the ticket holder, not those pushy co-passengers.
At heart, such a debate is not only about one's berth but also respect for personal space and, thus, the importance of individual rights. The Indian Railways carry millions of passengers daily within its premises and grants emotional weight to small comforts such as the side lower berth. However, it must be admitted that this incident carries an important lesson in culture empathy is essential, but entitlement cannot supersede fairness.
The online chatter raises more than one question-will the railways in the future issue specific allocation of side lower berths to specific categories of travelers like the elderly and differently abled, thereby removing all shades of ambiguity. Till then, the side lower will continue to be a symbol of convenience and a source of inspiration for innumerable travel tales.
ALSO READ: Amul’s Onam Ad Goes Viral: Aura Farming Meets Tradition | Watch
