Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam on Thursday urged the Central government to drop its reported decision to raise the rail fare, contending that it would severely affect the poor and the downtrodden.

Citing media reports in this regard, Mr. Panneerselvam in a statement, contended that the Railways was receiving additional revenue as it has increased the number of air-conditioned coaches and has suspended the concession erstwhile granted for senior citizens.

“It is unacceptable to increase the rail fare yet again. The senior citizens have been paying full fare due to the decision of the Railways. The poor, who usually travel for ordinary coaches, are being forced to travel by air-conditioned coaches,” Mr. Panneerselvam charged.