Maha Kumbh-Bound Passengers Hurl Stones At Special Train From Jhansi After Finding Doors Locked

Last Updated:January 28, 2025, 13:47 IST

Devotees Hurl Stones at Maha Kumbh Special Train in Chhatarpur Amid Severe Crowding

In a tragic turn of events at Harpalpur railway station, a crowd of pilgrims hurled stones and caused damage to a Maha Kumbh special train. The incident occurred when a large number of devotees, eager to attend the religious fair in Prayagraj, could not board the train due to severe overcrowding.

Incident Unfurls in Chhatarpur

The Maha Kumbh special train from Jhansi to Prayagraj arrived at the Harpalpur railway station around 1 am. Despite the train’s compartments being fully occupied and the doors locked, a significant number of devotees were waiting to board.

Disheartened by their inability to join the pilgrimage, the crowd reacted violently. Videos circulating on social media show the frustrated group pelting stones at the train.

Security Response and Damage Assessment

The Government Railway Police (GRP) eventually attempted to address the issue by opening some doors on another train at Chhatarpur. However, due to the overwhelming crowd, many pilgrims were still unable to board.

In their desperation, the crowd broke into the train by breaking window panes and continued to pelt stones. The scene grew chaotic, with reports of the mob trying to force their way inside.

One passenger quoted in the videos expressed concern for others’ safety: “They damaged the train and threw stones inside. They tried to kill passengers. There are women and children here.”

RPF and GRP Intervene

Railway Protection Force (RPF) and GRP personnel intervened after receiving reports of the disturbance. Upon arrival, they managed to calm the situation, causing the rioters to flee the area.

The damaged train was forced to remain at Harpalpur station for some time before resuming its journey.

Government’s Response to the Incident

Jhansi railway division’s public relations officer, Manoj Kumar Singh, commented on the incident. He acknowledged the issue and assured the public that the Railways would enhance security measures.

“The dispute has come to our notice and the Railways will make stricter security arrangements in coordination with the administration to prevent such incidents in the future,” Singh stated.

Heightened Security for Maha Kumbh

The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is expected to witness an influx of about 10 crore pilgrims for the Mauni Amavasya on January 29. In light of this, the Uttar Pradesh government has beefed up security measures.

Measures include the deployment of personnel throughout the area and the installation of advanced AI-powered CCTV cameras and drones to monitor the collection of devotees along the Triveni Sangam.

Conclusion

The incident at Harpalpur has highlighted the need for better crowd management and enhanced security measures during large-scale religious events like the Maha Kumbh. It underscores the importance of organizing such gatherings efficiently to ensure the safety and tranquility of millions of pilgrims.

As the Maha Kumbh event gains momentum, authorities must remain vigilant to prevent similar disturbances and maintain the sacredness of the fair.

Location :

Chhatarpur, India, India