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The inaugural journey of the Meerut-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express was marred by controversy as a woman and her companion alleged they were harassed by BJP workers onboard the train. The incident, which unfolded shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the new train service, has sparked widespread outrage and criticism, highlighting the potential for political tensions to infiltrate even celebratory events.
The woman, who was traveling with her companion, both claiming to be BJP supporters, described a distressing encounter. She recounted that while attempting to pass through a train cabin to access food, they were stopped by a man who claimed the space was reserved for BJP members. This led to a heated exchange and ultimately a physical altercation. The woman expressed her disappointment, stating, “We were passing through the cabin to take food when an uncle stopped us, saying it is BJP's cabin and we cannot go through it. When we were returning, they started arguing and pushed us, asking why we were frequently moving around the cabin. We are also connected with the BJP, but these kinds of people defame the party.”
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, attracting condemnation from opposition leaders. Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express her disapproval, stating, “This is completely unacceptable. The train is public property, not a personal or BJP asset.” The Congress party further amplified the incident by sharing a viral clip of the alleged altercation, labeling it as “a witness to the conduct, character, and face of the BJP.”
This incident, while seemingly isolated, raises concerns about the potential for political polarization and tension to permeate everyday experiences, including travel. It also highlights the importance of ensuring that public spaces remain accessible to all citizens regardless of their political affiliations. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for respectful dialogue and a shared commitment to maintaining order and decorum in public settings. The authorities are likely to investigate the allegations, which will provide further clarity on the specific events that transpired and the potential for accountability.
While the inauguration of the Meerut-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express was meant to be a moment of celebration and progress for the Indian railway system, the incident has overshadowed this positive development. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by political divisions and the need for greater vigilance in ensuring that such incidents are not repeated. The incident will likely have broader implications for public perception of the BJP and its ability to uphold principles of inclusivity and fairness in public spaces.
Source: Woman alleges BJP workers misbehaved on Vande Bharat train flagged off by PM Modi