New Delhi, June 11: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has taken decisive action following an incident involving the deployment of a poorly maintained train for Border Security Force (BSF) personnel traveling from Tripura to Kashmir for duty during the Amarnath Yatra.
In response to the lapse, four officials from the Alipurduar Division have been suspended. “Action was taken immediately. The train rake was replaced, and four responsible officers have been suspended,” Vaishnaw stated during a cabinet briefing.
The suspended individuals include the Coaching Depot Officer and three Senior Section Engineers from the Alipurduar Division.
The BSF addressed media reports suggesting that 1,200 personnel had refused to travel, clarifying that they had officially informed Indian Railways about the poor condition of several train coaches. “Some of the coaches initially allotted to our jawans were in substandard condition. We raised the issue through an official letter, after which a replacement train was arranged. The personnel will now proceed with their journey,” the BSF said.
A special train from Agartala is now being arranged exclusively for BSF personnel, with full consideration for their safety, comfort, and dignity.
The Ministry of Railways has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the matter to ensure such incidents are not repeated. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that the well-being and respect of security personnel remain a top priority and that any form of negligence will be dealt with strictly.
(With agency inputs)
