Mumbai: A Rs 500 challan has been issued to actor Varun Dhawan for creating nuisance inside public property after a video showing him hanging from grab handles inside a Mumbai Metro coach went viral on social media. The clip, widely shared online, drew criticism from commuters and prompted the metro operator to issue a public advisory on passenger safety. Action was taken by Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL), which clarified that grab handles inside metro coaches are designed only to provide support to standing passengers and not for hanging or performing stunts. The operator said such behaviour not only endangers the individual involved but can also pose risks to other commuters, especially during sudden braking or crowd movement. In a post on X, MMMOCL cautioned commuters against imitating what it described as “movie-style stunts” inside metro coaches, stressing that public transport systems are shared spaces governed by safety norms. The operator said misuse of fittings and acts that create nuisance fall under punishable offences. MMMOCL said the challan was issued under provisions of the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002, which allows action against passengers who cause inconvenience, nuisance or potential damage to metro property. Depending on the seriousness of the offence, penalties can range from fines to imprisonment. The metro operator urged commuters, including public figures, to set a responsible example and follow rules meant to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience. It added that adherence to safety guidelines is crucial as metro ridership continues to grow across Mumbai’s expanding network.
