Mumbai: In a disturbing incident, a ticketless passenger assaulted a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) on a Mumbai local train on Friday after being fined for traveling in an air-conditioned coach without a valid ticket. The passenger, identified as Aniket Bhosale, was traveling from Churchgate to Virar.
Fine Leads to Physical Altercation
The confrontation began when Chief Ticket Inspector Jasbir Singh discovered that Bhosale, who held a first-class ticket, was traveling in an air-conditioned coach without the required ticket. Upon being asked to pay a fine, Bhosale began arguing with Mr. Singh, and the situation quickly escalated into a physical altercation.
Video Captures Commotion
A video of the incident shows Bhosale, along with other passengers, engaging in a fight with Mr. Singh. The altercation became so intense that the ticket inspector’s shirt was allegedly torn in the scuffle. During the commotion, Mr. Singh sustained injuries and lost ₹1,500, which he had collected as fines from other passengers.
Train Halted Due to Incident
The fight caused the train to halt at Borivali station, where an officer attempted to have Bhosale deboard, but he refused. The situation was only resolved when Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel intervened and removed Bhosale from the train at Nalasopara station.
Apology and Compensation
After the incident, Bhosale admitted his mistake and provided a written apology, expressing concern that an FIR against him could jeopardize his job. He also compensated Mr. Singh by paying the ₹1,500 that was lost during the altercation.
Safety Concerns for Railway Staff
This incident raises concerns about the safety of railway staff who are responsible for maintaining order and ensuring passengers comply with ticketing rules. It highlights the need for stronger measures to protect ticket inspectors and other railway employees from such attacks while performing their duties.
