In a significant development in the 2023 train firing case, the dismissed Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable at the center of the incident has filed a bail petition. The plea introduces a medical angle, claiming the accused was suffering from a severe mental health condition at the time of the crime.
Medical Grounds for Bail Plea
The bail application, filed in November 2025, contends that the former constable was grappling with a delusional disorder. This condition, the plea argues, impaired his cognitive faculties to such an extent that he has no memory of the events surrounding the shooting incident that took place onboard a train.
Further strengthening the medical defense, the petition states that the accused was diagnosed with 'white matter disease'. This neurological condition affects the brain's white matter, which is crucial for transmitting signals, and can lead to cognitive decline, memory problems, and changes in mental state.
Recap of the 2023 Incident
The case dates back to a shocking event in 2023 when the RPF constable, while on duty, opened fire inside a moving train. The incident sent shockwaves across the nation, raising serious questions about security protocols and the mental well-being of personnel in sensitive roles. Following the event, the constable was swiftly dismissed from service by the RPF.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The bail plea, based on these medical claims, now places the ball in the court of the judiciary to consider the influence of the accused's mental health on his actions. The court is expected to examine the medical reports and arguments from both the defense and the prosecution before arriving at a decision. This case has highlighted the critical, yet often overlooked, issue of mental health among armed forces and security personnel.
