Surat: Stones Pelted on Vande Bharat Express with Anandiben Patel on Board, Former CM safe, One Nabbed

A stone-pelting incident was reported on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22961) near Surat’s Utran on Tuesday evening, shortly after the train crossed Surat station. The incident took place between around 6.30 pm and 6.45 pm, damaging the window panes of the C-6 and C-10 coaches.

Importantly, Uttar Pradesh Governor and Former Gujarat CM Anandiben Patel was reportedly travelling on the same train. However, she was seated in the Executive Class coach and was therefore away from the coaches affected by the stone-pelting. Her presence on the train was initially not officially confirmed.

Accused Nabbed

According to preliminary information, the Vande Bharat was passing between Utran and Kosad when some individuals allegedly threw stones at the moving train. The incident triggered a security response, with the SP/GRP being informed. RPF personnel and the IPF/Ankleshwar were subsequently rushed to the spot.

The RPF reportedly detained a man aged around 30 in connection with the incident. Preliminary information suggests that the suspect is addicted to intoxicants. However, his complete identity and the exact motive behind the stone-pelting had not been established at the time of writing.

Futther Investigation

The arrested suspect is being interrogated by the RPF. Investigators are examining whether the stone-pelting was deliberate or whether there was another reason behind the incident. Authorities are also checking whether any other person was involved.

Following the incident, railway authorities have stepped up security and vigilance around the railway tracks in the area. RPF and GRP personnel are conducting further inquiries at and around the spot.

No injuries to passengers have been reported so far. The stone-pelting caused damage to the glass windows of the C-6 and C-10 coaches. Further details are expected to emerge as the interrogation and investigation progress.