RPF Demands Compensation from Youths for Alleged Train Stone Pelting

Rapid Summary:

• Two youths, Saneesh P.K. and Lijin N., from Alappuzha district, were arrested for allegedly throwing stones at the Kannur Executive Express on August 30.
• The Railway Protection Force (RPF), Ernakulam, has invoked sections of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to seek compensation for damages caused by the incident.
• The case was filed before the Chief Judicial Magistrate in Ernakulam under both BNSS provisions and the Railways Act.
• Southern Railway stated that such acts of vandalism are a serious safety risk to passengers, railway personnel, and operations.
• Ernakulam South RPF Inspector Binoy Antony noted that invoking Section 395 BNSS aims to deter future incidents by seeking compensation from offenders.
• According to a press release issued by Southern Railway’s chief public relations officer M. Senthamil Selvan, a stone struck and damaged the loco pilot’s lookout glass but no injuries occurred.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The proactive steps taken by RPF under both criminal prosecution laws and BNSS provisions mark a significant push towards stricter accountability for acts of vandalism targeting railway property.By seeking monetary compensation as well as prosecuting under applicable laws,authorities demonstrate their commitment not only to punishing offenders but also deterring similar incidents in the future. Damaging railway infrastructure directly endangers passenger safety; hence stringent measures are necessary to uphold public trust in train travel security-a key mode of transportation across India.

Such enforcement highlights broader efforts within Indian Railways toward enhancing operational safety amidst growing challenges posed by miscreants or accidental disruptions along rail tracks nationwide.

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