IRCTC update: Sleeper Class tickets no longer upgraded to first AC

Indian Railways has revised its auto-upgrade process for waitlisted tickets. Sleeper class tickets will no longer be upgraded to First AC, even if berths are available. This change aims to manage congestion in AC coaches. Until now, waitlisted tickets were upgraded to a higher class if seats were available. However, this facility will no longer be available. Under the new rules, waitlisted tickets will only be upgraded up to two classes higher. For instance, a sleeper class ticket can be upgraded to a maximum of Third AC or Second AC. Similarly, a Third AC (3A) waitlisted ticket can only be upgraded to First AC (1A). Previously, sleeper class or other lower class waitlisted tickets could be automatically upgraded to First AC (1A) based on seat availability. However, the auto-upgrade facility is only available to passengers who select the auto-upgrade option during ticket booking. If the passenger has not chosen the option, their ticket will not be upgraded. Even after the ticket is upgraded, the PNR number of the waitlisted ticket will remain the same. However, if the upgraded ticket is cancelled, the refund will be based on the fare of the original booking class (such as sleeper), not the upgraded class. According to IRCTC, the Center for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) is updating its software to implement this new rule. From May 1, the railways has introduced a new rule, according to which waitlisted passengers are no longer allowed to travel in sleeper or AC coaches. Passengers with waitlisted tickets are only eligible to travel in general class. If a passenger is caught traveling in sleeper or AC class, there is a provision for a fine and punishment.