The passenger claimed that at least two such incidents were reported in his coach. According to a video and images he shared on X, the dal-chawal meal served to him contained a cockroach-like insect.

He identified the vendor as M/S Brandavan Food Products, part of the RK Group.

Tagging the concerned authorities, the passenger — whose X handle identifies him as Aditya Didwania — wrote: “Found an insect in Vande Bharat train food (Ahmedabad → Mumbai). At least two such cases in my coach; everyone stopped eating after that.”

He further urged authorities to take strict action, saying: “Just one request — please raid them. I am certain the food is not being prepared as per FSSAI standards. If found guilty, their licence should be cancelled.” He also expressed concern that the issue should not be “settled through bribes.”

The post has since gone viral on social media.

Responding to the X post, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation said the matter has been taken with utmost seriousness. It announced a penalty of ₹10 lakh on the service provider and issued a termination notice of the contract.

“The kitchen has been sealed for deep cleaning and pest control. Hygiene and passenger safety remain our topmost priority,” IRCTC said.

The incident has triggered widespread concern online, with several users reacting sharply to the images.

One user sarcastically commented, “It’s being prepared under FSSAI standards, that’s why you found a cockroach.”

Another remarked, “The insect is not in the food — the food is around the insect.”