I think those days are coming when seats will be available on short notice but with a higher price. You get Airlines tickets even at the last hour but with high price....So what wrong in paying high price for confirmed seats in case of emergency.
I think nowadays even airtickets are coming at cheaper price on discounted offers. Railways should introduce certain schemes during off season to earn money rather than running empty trains.
Secondly, suggest higher cancellation charges in certain classes to stop blocking of seats by touts.