A special train traveling from Jhansi to Prayagraj was attacked with stones at Harpalpur station after passengers waiting on the platform discovered the doors of the compartments locked.
Videos circulating on social media show attackers throwing stones at the train, shattering windows, and causing panic among the passengers inside.
One video captures a passenger explaining that the train departed Jhansi at around 8 pm on the previous day. Upon reaching Harpalpur, the train came under attack.
"They damaged the train and threw stones inside. They tried to harm passengers, including women and children," the passenger said.
The special train was being operated to cater to the Mahakumbh event in Prayagraj, drawing pilgrims from across India. Most of the passengers on board were traveling to attend the religious gathering.
Reports indicate that many people were waiting at Harpalpur, roughly two hours from Jhansi, to board the train. When they attempted to enter, they found the doors locked. This led to frustration and an outbreak of violence, with passengers hurling stones at the train, shattering windows and creating chaos.
Harpalpur police station in-charge Pushpak Sharma confirmed that stones were thrown at the train around 2 am when it arrived at the station.
Railways spokesperson Manoj Singh stated that a crowd of passengers, headed for Prayagraj, had been waiting on the platform. When they attempted to board, they found the doors locked, which led to the agitation and disruption.
The railway police arrived promptly, calmed the situation, and assisted passengers in continuing their journey.
The railways urged passengers to cooperate to ensure smooth travel to Prayagraj and avoid any further incidents.
Special trains are being operated to facilitate the movement of devotees to the Mahakumbh.