Rs 1cr train robbery puts AC coach security under lens

Jaipur: Security arrangements in reserved AC coaches have come under scrutiny after four suspected members of an interstate gang were arrested in connection with an alleged robbery involving cash and jewellery worth around Rs 1 crore aboard Madurai-Bikaner Anuvrat Superfast Express.The case has raised questions over passenger verification and security checks inside reserved coaches, particularly on long-distance trains where passengers frequently board and alight at intermediate stations.Investigators said the accused allegedly remained inside the AC coach for more than an hour without being checked. During this period, they allegedly observed passengers and targeted those carrying valuables.Circle inspector, GRP Bikaner, Neha Rajpurohit, while talking to TOI Friday, said the investigation so far indicated that the suspects had specifically targeted passengers carrying jewellery and cash. “They remained inside the AC coach, observed passengers and allegedly stole valuables from their luggage,” she said.During interrogation, the accused allegedly told investigators that they had remained inside the train for more than an hour and were not checked during that period. Police said the arrested suspects have also confessed to involvement in baggage thefts on trains.Danish Ali, who was travelling from Jaipur Junction to Abu Road on Ashram Express, said stronger verification could improve passenger safety. “Ticket checking primarily establishes the validity of the journey. Regular verification can also help identify unauthorised persons and alert security personnel to suspicious activity,” he said.Pankaj Bhatt, who frequently travels between Alwar and Jaipur, called for stronger deployment of security personnel and stricter checks of people entering reserved coaches.“In some of my journeys, I have seen excessive vendors without any ID or badge,” he said.Responding to the incident, Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer, North Western Railway, said RPF deployment had been increased on several long-distance trains.“Instructions have also been issued to train conductors and train ticket examiners to ensure proper checking and verification of passengers onboard reserved coaches, including AC and non-AC coaches,” he said.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Jaipur | Silver Rate in Jaipur | Bank Holidays in Jaipur | Public Holidays in Jaipur | Jaipur AQI | Weather in Jaipur | Petrol Price in Jaipur | Diesel Price in Jaipur | CNG Price in Jaipur | LPG Price in JaipurStay updated with the latest Jaipur news. Download the TOI App.