Mangaluru: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Palakkad Division under Southern Railway has taken swift and stringent action in a serious stone pelting incident involving the Vande Bharat Express near Mangaluru Junction, underlining its zero-tolerance approach towards acts that endanger passenger safety and railway property.

The incident involved Train No. 20645 Vande Bharat Express, one of the premium semi-high-speed trains operating on the Southern Railway network. According to official sources, a stone was hurled at the moving train near Mangaluru Junction Railway Station, resulting in damage to a window glass of the coach. Although no passenger injuries were reported, the incident raised serious concerns about safety and security on busy railway corridors.

Immediately after the incident was reported, the RPF registered a case under Section 153 of the Railway Act, which deals with endangering the safety of persons travelling by railway through unlawful acts. Recognising the gravity of the offence, the Palakkad Division constituted a special RPF team to investigate the matter and identify the offender at the earliest.

Swift investigation and arrest

Acting on technical inputs and field intelligence, the special RPF team conducted a detailed investigation and successfully traced the accused within a short span of time. The accused has been identified as Subjit Mullick (23). He was arrested on December 18 in connection with the stone pelting incident.

During interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed to committing the offence while under the influence of alcohol. The RPF stated that intoxication would not be accepted as a mitigating factor in such serious cases, especially when public safety is compromised.

Following his arrest, Subjit Mullick was produced before the competent court and has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days. Further investigation is underway to ascertain whether the accused was involved in any similar incidents in the past.

Serious threat to passenger safety

In an official release, the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway emphasised that stone pelting on trains is a grave criminal offence with potentially fatal consequences. Even a single stone hitting a moving train at high speed can shatter glass, injure passengers and railway staff, or lead to panic and chaos inside the coach.

Officials pointed out that modern trains like the Vande Bharat Express operate at higher speeds compared to conventional passenger trains, making them more vulnerable to such reckless acts. Damage to window glass or external panels can also result in costly repairs and disruption of services, affecting hundreds of passengers.

The release further stated that stone pelting, whether committed deliberately, out of mischief, or under intoxication, would invite strict legal action without exception.

Zero-tolerance policy reiterated

The RPF reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards offences that threaten the safety of railway passengers and property. The force has made it clear that anyone found involved in stone pelting incidents will be arrested and sent to jail, and maximum punishment under the law will be sought.

“Such reckless and irresponsible acts can cause grievous injuries, loss of innocent lives and extensive damage to valuable railway assets. The Railway Protection Force is committed to ensuring a safe travel environment for all passengers,” the release said.

The RPF has also intensified patrolling in vulnerable sections, particularly near stations and densely populated areas where such incidents are more likely to occur. Surveillance measures, coordination with local police and increased community outreach are being used to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Appeal to the public

Railway authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities near railway tracks or stations. Citizens living in areas adjacent to railway lines have been urged to discourage anti-social activities and inform the authorities promptly if they notice anyone attempting to damage railway property.

Passengers have also been advised to immediately alert on-board staff or use helpline numbers if they witness any untoward incident during their journey.

Conclusion

The prompt arrest of the accused in the Vande Bharat Express stone pelting case highlights the proactive approach of the Railway Protection Force in dealing with crimes that endanger public safety. As premium trains continue to expand their footprint across the country, ensuring their security remains a top priority. The RPF’s firm action sends a strong message that offences against rail passengers and infrastructure will not be tolerated under any circumstances.