July 11, 2025: A major accident was narrowly avoided on Thursday when Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supporters protesting on a railway track in Bihar’s Bhojpur district fled moments before a speeding train passed through. The dramatic episode occurred during a statewide agitation organized by the RJD, as part of their ongoing protest against rising inflation, unemployment, and demands for a caste-based census.
According to reports, dozens of RJD workers gathered near the tracks and attempted to block train movement by staging a sit-in. The protest quickly escalated into a near-disaster when a passenger train en route from Patna to Buxar approached at high speed. Quick reflexes and timely warnings allowed the demonstrators to escape unhurt, but the incident has triggered serious safety concerns.
Visuals from the scene captured the tense moments as party workers scrambled off the tracks, waving flags and chanting slogans. No injuries or damage were reported, though the train was forced to apply emergency brakes, causing a brief disruption in services.
Railway Protection Force (RPF) officials have launched an inquiry into the incident. “This kind of protest is not only illegal but extremely dangerous,” an RPF official stated. “We are identifying individuals involved, and strict action will be taken against those who endangered lives.”
Senior railway officials confirmed that the loco pilot responded swiftly, managing to slow the train in time. “The train was on its regular schedule, and thanks to the presence of mind of the driver, a tragedy was averted,” said a spokesperson for East Central Railway.
RJD leaders, however, defended the protest, insisting that it was meant to be peaceful. “Our protest was symbolic, and there was no intention to obstruct any train permanently,” said a senior party functionary. “The government has ignored key issues affecting the common man, and we are compelled to raise our voice.”
Despite this defense, the incident has drawn criticism from various quarters, including civil society groups and transport safety experts. Many have questioned the method of protest, especially one that puts human lives at such grave risk.
Former railway officials and political commentators also weighed in, warning that such demonstrations could have catastrophic consequences. “Political protests must remain within legal and ethical boundaries. Blocking railway tracks is not only unlawful but potentially fatal,” said former Railway Board advisor R.K. Singh.
The Bihar Police and district administration are now on high alert to prevent further such incidents during the ongoing agitation. Additional security forces have been deployed at key railway junctions across the state to ensure the safety of passengers and railway personnel.
As the investigation continues, Thursday’s incident stands as a grim reminder of the need for responsible protest and the risks posed by unchecked public demonstrations on critical infrastructure.
