Mumbai, Date: 15-06-2023 A horrifying incident of sexual assault unfolded on Wednesday morning when a 20-year-old woman was allegedly attacked by a 40-year-old man inside the ladies’ compartment of a moving Mumbai local train. The victim, who was traveling alone, was headed towards Belapur in Navi Mumbai to appear for an exam, according to reports from the GRP (Government Railway Police).
The incident took place between the CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Masjid stations at around 7:26 am. The accused boarded the train at CSMT and entered the empty ladies’ compartment as soon as the train started moving, as revealed by a GRP official quoted by PTI. The accused allegedly sexually assaulted the woman during the journey, and when she raised an alarm at Masjid station, he quickly fled the scene.
Upon receiving the distress call, a joint operation was launched by the GRP, Railway Protection Force (RPF), crime branch, and Mumbai police to apprehend the accused. CCTV footage from inside and outside the Masjid station was meticulously examined, leading to the identification and subsequent arrest of the accused at approximately 4 pm, as confirmed by the official.
The accused, identified as a daily wage worker, is now facing charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including rape. The police have begun further investigations into the matter to gather more evidence and ascertain the full extent of the incident.
Meanwhile, it is essential to provide immediate help and support to victims of harassment or assault on moving trains. If any woman finds herself in a similar distressing situation, she should immediately contact the helpline number 1800111321 provided by the railway authorities or seek assistance from the Railway Protection Force (RPF). The safety and security of passengers, especially women, remain a top priority, and swift action will be taken to ensure justice and prevent such incidents in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need to prioritize the safety of ladies passengers during train journeys, and efforts must continue to ensure the well-being of all commuters, particularly women, who deserve to travel without fear.