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The Railway Protection Force (RPF), Ernakulam, Southern Railway, has arrested two persons in connection with a stone pelting incident that occurred on 30.08.2025, targeting the Kannur Executive Express.
The incident took place when the train was passing near Veluthulli gate close to Aroor Railway Station. A stone thrown from the tracks struck the lookout glass in front of the Loco Pilot and damaged it. Fortunately, the Loco Pilot escaped without injury, averting a potentially life-threatening and alarming situation not only for the Loco Pilot but also for the many passengers of the train since safety of the Loco Pilot is paramount for the safety of the train passengers as well.
Following the incident, the RPF launched a thorough investigation. Officers conducted field inquiries, interrogated multiple individuals, and scrutinized CCTV footage. Based on strong evidence, the two accused were taken into custody and remanded by the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Ernakulam. A case has been filed before the court seeking suitable compensation from the accused persons under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) for damaging railway property, besides initiating criminal prosecution under the Railways Act.
Southern Railway reiterates that any such unlawful and dangerous behaviour will be dealt with strictly and swiftly, ensuring zero tolerance towards threats to public safety and railway operations.
Indian Railways views such acts of vandalism with utmost seriousness, as they pose a grave threat to the safety of passengers, railway personnel, and train operations. Involving in such criminal acts is a non-bailable offence under the Railways Act and may adversely affect future employment opportunities for the offenders.
Railways Act – Relevant sections and penalties for Stone Pelting
|
Section |
Description |
Penalty |
|---|---|---|
|
Section 150 – Maliciously wrecking or attempting to wreck a train |
Throwing stones or other matter on/over the railway, or tampering with tracks, machinery etc., with intent or knowledge of likely danger to safety of persons on the railway |
Life imprisonment, or rigorous imprisonment up to 10 years. If first offence: minimum 3 years; if subsequent: minimum 7 years in absence of special reasons |
|
Section 152 – Maliciously hurting or attempting to hurt persons travelling by railway |
Throwing stones etc. at rolling stock (train coaches) knowing it may endanger people on board |
Imprisonment for life, or term up to 10 years |
|
Section 153 – Endangering safety of persons travelling by railway by wilful act or omission |
Any unlawful act or omission that endangers safety of people on the railway, even if no direct injury occurs |
Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or fine |
|
Section 154 – Rash or negligent acts/omissions endangering safety |
Acts performed rashly or negligently that may endanger safety (not necessarily intentional) |
Up to 1 year imprisonment, or fine, or both |
Source/SR
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