Gwalior, July 2 (IANS) A viral video showing a man being assaulted by passengers at Gwalior Railway Station has prompted the Government Railway Police (GRP) to order a departmental inquiry and shift a Sub-Inspector to police lines over alleged negligence in handling the case.

The action came after allegations surfaced that the GRP failed to initiate prompt legal proceedings against the man, who was detained following an alleged theft attempt, and instead allowed him to leave.

According to railway police, the incident took place on June 29 at around 4 p.m. on Platform No. 2 after a woman accused the youth of attempting to snatch a gold earring from her ear.

As she raised an alarm, passengers caught hold of him and allegedly assaulted him before security personnel intervened.

During the assault, the youth reportedly picked up a child accompanying him in an apparent bid to shield himself from the mob.

A bystander recorded the incident, and the video later went viral on social media, drawing attention to both the mob violence and the subsequent police response.

Officials said Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel rescued the man from the crowd and handed him over to the GRP for further action. However, the handling of the case came under scrutiny after allegations emerged that no immediate legal action was taken against him.

Taking cognisance of the viral video, the Railway Police Headquarters ordered a preliminary inquiry.

Based on its findings, GRP Sub-Inspector Chetan Korolia was attached to police lines pending completion of the departmental probe.

“A departmental inquiry has been initiated into the incident. We are also identifying the people involved in assaulting the youth on the basis of the viral video. Action will be taken against anyone found guilty, in accordance with the law,” Railway Superintendent of Police Rajesh Singh said.

The incident has raised questions over the handling of alleged theft cases by railway police as well as the growing concern over mob justice at public places. The outcome of the departmental inquiry is expected to determine whether further disciplinary or legal action will follow.

–IANS

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