An RPF constable, identified as Chetan Singh, turned a routine train journey into a horrific scene of violence, as he opened fire on-board the Jaipur-Mumbai Central Superfast Express. The incident took place near the Palghar railway station in Maharashtra, leaving four people dead, including ASI Tikaram Meena, a fellow RPF colleague, and three passengers.
According to officials, the incident occurred around 5 o’clock in the morning. Chetan Singh, armed with his official automatic weapon, unleashed a barrage of bullets inside the moving train, causing panic and chaos among the passengers. After shooting his senior ASI Tikaram Meena, the constable proceeded to target and kill three other passengers in separate coaches.
The motivation behind the shocking act remains unclear, but some authorities have noted that Chetan Singh was known for having a short temper and a hot-headed demeanor. Inspector General of RPF (Western Railway) Praveen Sinha addressed the media, stating that there was no apparent altercation or provocation leading up to the shooting. Singh seemed to have lost his temper and resorted to extreme violence, taking the lives of innocent individuals.
The deceased ASI Tikaram Meena hailed from Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, while the accused constable Chetan Singh was from Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. As the investigation is ongoing, statements from two other accompanying RPF jawans are being recorded to shed light on the tragic event.
After the shooting, the accused constable attempted to escape by pulling the emergency chain and exiting the train near Dahisar Station. However, law enforcement officials, including Government Railway Police and RPF officers, managed to apprehend him later at Mira Road.
The Western Railways has launched a high-level inquiry into the incident to understand the factors leading to this tragic loss of lives. As the accused was posted in Lower Parel, the authorities will also investigate any potential work-related stress or grievances that might have contributed to the violent outburst.
The victims’ families are devastated by the sudden loss of their loved ones. The railway authorities have announced compensations to support ASI Tikaram Meena’s family during these difficult times. The compensations include ₹15 lakhs from Railway Surksha Kalyan Nidhi, ₹20,000 for funeral expenses, ₹15 lakhs as Death-cum-Retirement Gratuity, and ₹65,000 as part of the General Insurance Scheme.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the railway community and raised concerns about the safety and well-being of passengers on trains. The authorities are looking into reviewing security protocols and measures to prevent such tragic events in the future.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the motives behind this heinous act. The nation mourns the loss of innocent lives and stands in solidarity with the families of the victims during this time of grief and sorrow.
Sources By Agencies
