India's highly anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, designed to offer premium overnight travel, has been marred by issues of littering and vandalism almost immediately after its inauguration. Shortly after the ceremonial flag-off on Saturday, January 18, 2026, viral videos emerged showing a coach of the train littered with plastic packets, spoons, and food waste. This stark display of poor civic sense among passengers has drawn widespread criticism and dismay from the public and railway authorities alike. A senior railway official stated that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility, as the railway system is public property. The issue is particularly concerning given that Vande Bharat trains, including the sleeper variant, command premium fares, suggesting that the problem is not solely about affordability but a deeper issue of public behavior. Adding to the concerns, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train was also subjected to stone-pelting hours before its official inauguration, resulting in damaged window panes. While no passengers or staff were injured, this act of vandalism raises serious questions about the security of national infrastructure and public responsibility. The Railway Protection Force had issued prior alerts about potential protests and stone-throwing in the area. These incidents highlight a recurring problem with Vande Bharat trains, as similar acts of vandalism and littering have been reported since their initial rollout. Railway officials are taking note of the viral videos and have reiterated the importance of civic sense and respect for public property. Dedicated on-board housekeeping staff are available to address littering, but the root cause of such behavior remains a significant concern for Indian Railways. The Vande Bharat Sleeper train's first commercial run was scheduled to commence on January 22, 2026.