RPF Constable's Neck-Kneeling Incident at Chennai Railway Station Draws Widespread Condemnation
A disturbing video capturing a Railway Protection Force constable pinning down a youth and kneeling on his neck at Tiruvottiyur railway station in Chennai has ignited widespread condemnation across social media platforms. The graphic footage has raised serious concerns about police conduct and the use of excessive force in handling civilians.
Details of the Incident on February 11
According to police reports, the incident occurred on February 11 when a youth, who was reportedly intoxicated, was traveling without a valid ticket in a first-class compartment. The young man had boarded a train from Chennai Central destined for Gummidipoondi. When railway authorities questioned him about his lack of a ticket, he allegedly became unruly and confrontational.
Upon the train's arrival at Tiruvottiyur station, a train ticket examiner apprehended the youth and subsequently handed him over to RPF personnel for further action. It was at this point that the situation escalated dramatically.
Viral Video Shows Disturbing Use of Force
The video that quickly went viral on various social media platforms shows RPF personnel pushing the youth onto the platform. Most alarmingly, the footage captures a constable kneeling directly on the man's neck for an extended period before shifting to sit on his chest. The constable is then seen repeatedly slapping the youth's face while he remains pinned to the ground.
This visual documentation of the incident has sparked outrage among netizens and civil rights advocates, who have drawn parallels to similar cases of police brutality globally and questioned the proportionality of the force used against an unarmed individual.
Official Response and Internal Inquiry
Following the viral spread of the video and mounting public pressure, RPF officials have taken swift action. The constable involved, whose identity has been withheld pending investigation, has been formally questioned for allegedly manhandling the youth. Railway Protection Force authorities have confirmed that an internal inquiry has been ordered to thoroughly probe the matter.
RPF sources have indicated that departmental action will be initiated against the policeman based on the findings of the inquiry report. This response reflects the organization's acknowledgment of the seriousness of the allegations and the need for accountability in law enforcement operations.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The incident has reignited discussions about police training, appropriate use of force protocols, and civilian rights during law enforcement interactions. Social media platforms have been flooded with comments condemning the constable's actions, with many users calling for stricter oversight of railway security personnel and more comprehensive de-escalation training.
This case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly routine enforcement actions can escalate into potentially dangerous situations, and highlights the critical importance of proper procedure and restraint when dealing with non-compliant individuals, regardless of their alleged infractions.
