Jhansi, June 20: A major controversy erupted on the Vande Bharat Express running from Jhansi to Bhopal when a passenger-seat dispute turned violent involving the supporters of BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha.
The incident took place in coach E-2, where Rajkumar (50), a passenger from Bhopal, was allegedly beaten up by individuals said to be close to the Babina MLA. According to eyewitnesses, the MLA’s family wanted to sit together and asked for a seat change, which soon led to a heated argument, abuse, and a physical scuffle.
The BJP MLA claimed that the other party used indecent language, which escalated the matter. However, passengers and onlookers allege that the MLA’s supporters resorted to violence.
A formal complaint has been registered with the GRP (Government Railway Police), and the incident has taken a political turn, raising questions about VIP culture in public transport.
Police presence during an assault raises eyebrows
Another passenger reported that 3-4 policemen were present when the assault happened. “When the police themselves are involved, who can passengers rely on for safety? The railway police arrived later, but by then, the damage was done,” the passenger added.
Congress blames BJP MLA’s supporters
Congress spokesperson Mukesh Nayak shared a video of the injured passenger, accusing supporters of BJP MLA Rajeev Singh of carrying out the assault.
He wrote, “An elderly passenger in the Vande Bharat train was beaten at Jhansi station for refusing to exchange seat number 49. This is the reality of ‘good governance’? There is no law in Uttar Pradesh, only goonda raj.”