Originally Posted by phb
AC1 will be fine. I did exactly this trip from Mumbai to Agra in February, no problem. You will be sharing, possibly mixed sex in a sleeper. At no time did I feel unsafe or uncomfortable. You will get a meal (choice of meat or veg). It's a great way to meet people and to see the countryside.
AC1 for my trip meant a lockable 4 berth, so the only worry would be the people in the cabin with you. No security issues at all really.
be careful about the locks. While i haven't been on trains in india, and maybe don't know of which i speak, I've been on lots of trains in Russia. They have the same 4-berth locking cabins. however, the locks can be opened from outside by strong magnet and some other manipulations. In Russia, at least, a locked 4-berth cabin is not any more secure than having a door open. all import docs i put under my pillow and tie to my hand. even shoes have been stolen.