In a dramatic twist to the tragic shooting incident that occurred aboard a Jaipur-Mumbai train near Palghar railway station on July 31, RPF constable Chetan Singh has been slapped with additional charges of promoting enmity between different religious groups. The incident, which initially led to Singh being charged with murder and firearms-related offenses, has taken on a new dimension with the inclusion of IPC Section 153A in the FIR.
Earlier, Singh vehemently denied any communal angle to the shooting that claimed the lives of assistant sub-inspector Tikaram Meena and three passengers – Saifuddin Mainuddin, Asgar Abbas Ali, and Abdul Kadar Mohamed Hussain Bhanpurwala. However, the Government Railway Police have now formally added the charge of promoting enmity based on religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, and more.
The accused constable, armed with an AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing 20 rounds, fired 12 shots at the victims. Quick action by passengers led to his eventual capture near Mira Road station. Singh’s history with the Railway Protection Force dates back to 2009 when he joined on compassionate grounds after his father’s demise. He had been transferred from Bhavnagar in Gujarat to Mumbai, but railway officials refute claims that the transfer triggered his actions.
Amidst conflicting reports about Singh’s mental health, the Ministry of Railways initially denied any mental ailment in his recent medical examination. However, this statement was later retracted without clarification. Railway officials also struggle to confirm whether Singh underwent health checks in the past two years.
As investigations continue, the case highlights the complex challenges surrounding law enforcement and mental well-being. The addition of promoting enmity charges underscores the broader implications of the incident, raising questions about societal harmony and security. The tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the delicate balance authorities must strike in maintaining peace and ensuring justice.
Also Read: RPF Constable Shoots Dead Four Passengers, Including an ASI, on Jaipur-Mumbai Express Train
