A passenger aboard the Vande Bharat Express was allegedly assaulted by BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha
From Seat Swap to Slap: How a Routine Journey Turned Violent
On June 19, 2025, what began as a routine journey aboard the New Delhi – Bhopal Vande Bharat Express spiralled into a disturbing episode of alleged political aggression. The flashpoint? A simple request to swap seats.
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According to multiple eyewitness accounts and viral video footage, Raj Prakash, a passenger seated near the front of the coach, was approached by BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha, who was traveling with his wife and son. The MLA reportedly requested Prakash to exchange seats so his family could sit together. When Prakash declined, tensions escalated.
Upon arrival at Jhansi station, a group of men, allegedly linked to Parichha boarded the train and assaulted Prakash with fists and slippers, leaving him visibly injured. Mobile footage shows blood on Prakash’s shirt and face, sparking widespread condemnation on social media.
Political Fallout and Public Outrage: VIP Culture Under Fire
The incident has reignited a national debate over VIP entitlement and misuse of political power. While Parichha filed a non-cognizable report (NCR) against Prakash, accusing him of indecent behavior, the assaulted passenger has yet to file a formal complaint.
The Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) have launched an investigation, reviewed CCTV footage and attempted to contact Prakash for a statement. However, officials say no clear evidence of the assault was captured on the train’s internal cameras, though visuals from the station and mobile phones suggest otherwise.
Opposition leaders have seized on the incident, accusing the ruling party of fostering a culture of impunity. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate shared the video on social media, alleging that the MLA is “close to PM Modi and Shah Saheb,” and demanding accountability.
According to the notice, Parichha’s alleged involvement in the altercation, where his associates were seen thrashing a co-passenger who refused to swap seats has “tarnished the image of the party” and reflects “serious indiscipline.” The BJP has given him seven days to respond, warning that failure to do so could result in strict action
Justice on Hold: The Legal and Moral Questions Ahead
As of June 23, no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed by the victim, and authorities say further action hinges on his formal complaint. This legal limbo has raised concerns about access to justice, especially when the accused are politically connected.
Legal experts argue that the burden of proof should not fall solely on the victim, especially when video evidence and multiple witness accounts exist. “The state has a duty to act when public safety is compromised, regardless of whether a complaint is filed,” said a senior advocate in Bhopal.
The incident also underscores the need for clearer passenger rights protocols on premium trains like the Vande Bharat Express. With rising reports of altercations over seat allocations and VIP interference, railway authorities may need to revisit their policies on conflict resolution and onboard security.
Meanwhile, public sentiment remains inflamed. Hashtags like #VandeBharatAssault and #VIPCultureExposed are trending, with citizens demanding transparency, accountability, and equal treatment under the law.
Conclusion:
The Vande Bharat incident is more than a seat dispute, it’s a mirror reflecting deeper issues of power, privilege, and public accountability. As investigations continue and the nation watches, one question lingers: will justice board this train, or be left behind at the platform?
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