Stones Pelted on Taptiganga Express: Attack on Maha Kumbh Devotees Sparks Concerns
On Sunday, January 12, an alarming incident of stone pelting was reported on the Taptiganga Express, a train known for carrying devotees to the revered Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. The attack occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. as the train was departing Jalgaon station in Maharashtra. While no passengers were injured, the act caused significant panic among the travelers.
The train full of Hindu devotees going to #MahaKumbh was attacked in Jalgaon.
Some "miscreants" pelted stones at it.Not a single Hindu festival or pilgrimage passes without facing an attack! pic.twitter.com/SfWu3w6d0G
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) January 12, 2025
Details of the IncidentÂ
According to railway officials, the stones were hurled at the window of coach B-6, shattering glass at berths 33-39. Passengers, startled by the loud crash, promptly recorded videos of the damage and reported the incident to the authorities. The footage, now viral on social media, showcases the broken windows and highlights the passengers’ distress.
Jalgaon, Maharashtra: On incident of stone pelting was reported at Tapi Ganga Express traveling from Surat to Chapra in Jalgaon, RPF Inspector Gyaneshwar Patil says, "The incident should not be regarded as stone pelting. Train number 19045 down Surat-Chhapra Express arrived at… pic.twitter.com/zwgAAOYYu9
— IANS (@ians_india) January 12, 2025
The Jalgaon Railway Protection Force (RPF) has launched an investigation and has identified a suspect believed to be responsible for the attack. Despite this progress, the motive behind the incident remains unclear. Authorities are implementing additional security measures along the route to ensure the safety of devotees traveling to the Maha Kumbh.
Targeting Hindu Devotees?
The incident has sparked concerns about the intentions behind the attack. Many have questioned whether this was a deliberate attempt to disrupt the Maha Kumbh festivities, a sacred Hindu event. Critics have pointed out that such acts often seem targeted, raising suspicions about the involvement of groups harboring hostility toward Hindu traditions.
Some observers have speculated that the “peaceful community” may have been involved. Historical animosity displayed during major Hindu festivals and gatherings is often accompanied by disruptive acts that aim to instill fear and chaos.
Protecting Devotees and Traditions Maha Kumbh
Incidents like these underscore the importance of heightened security measures during religious events. The Maha Kumbh, one of the largest Hindu gatherings, holds immense spiritual significance. Any attempt to disrupt devotees’ journey not only affects their faith but also poses a threat to communal harmony.
Railway officials and local authorities must act swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers and prevent such attacks in the future. Strengthened vigilance and stringent action against perpetrators are imperative to uphold the sanctity of these cherished traditions.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by devotees and the pressing need to safeguard India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage from those who seek to undermine it.