On Monday, a tragic incident occurred aboard the Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express train near Palghar railway station in Maharashtra, where a Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable, identified as Chetan Kumar Choudhary, opened fire, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI).
The unfortunate event unfolded shortly after 5 am when the constable, armed with an automatic weapon, shot and killed ASI Tika Ram Meena, who was in charge of the escort duty on the running train. Following this, Chetan Kumar Choudhary proceeded to another coach and shot dead three more passengers. The incident took place in the B5 coach of the Jaipur Express train (Train No. 12956) at 5.23 am.
Visuals from inside the Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express Train (12956) in which a Railway Protection Force (RPF) jawan allegedly shot dead four people. The accused has been arrested. pic.twitter.com/AYPXJZDWt5
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 31, 2023
The authorities acted swiftly, and with the assistance of Government Railway Police and RPF officials, they apprehended the constable at Mira Road. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear at this point, as there is no information about the reason for his actions.
The Western Railway spokesperson, Sumit Thakur, expressed their regrets over the tragic event and confirmed that ASI Tika Ram and three civilians were among the victims of this shocking incident. After the shooting, the constable briefly held passengers at gunpoint but was eventually captured near Dahisar while attempting to escape after pulling the alarm chain.
Currently, Chetan Kumar Choudhary is in the custody of the Mira Road railway police, and an investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances that led to this senseless act of violence. The bodies of the deceased were taken out of the train at Borivali railway station.
As investigations continue, authorities will work tirelessly to uncover the motives behind this tragedy and to ensure that justice is served for the lives lost and the pain inflicted. The railway community will undoubtedly unite to support one another during this difficult time, seeking ways to prevent such incidents in the future and uphold the safety and security of passengers and staff alike.
