Recently, the Kerala High Court has recently directed the Indian Railways to periodically review the steps taken by them to improve the safety of rail passengers. The division bench of Chief Justice S Manikumar and Justice Murali Purushothaman issued the direction on a suo motu case to ensure the safety of passengers, especially woman passengers, in Railway trains.

Earlier, in 2021 Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas had expressed concerns regarding the safety of railway passengers after taking note of a news report which said that a 31-year-old female railway passenger in Ernakulam had jumped off a moving train after she was attacked. She had sustained head injuries.

Thereafter, the Chief Justice issued an order to initiate the present suo motu case.

Subsequently, the amicus curiae and State Police Chief submitted suggestions before the court to ensure the safety of passengers, some of which are summarised below:

• Railway Department and State Police Chief should ensure at least one RPF/GRP is engaged in trains and stations to conduct check-ups regularly;

• Engage at least one-woman RPF in the ladies’ compartment during day and night hours;

• Place the woman’s compartment in the center of the train with a red alarm button for calling attention in an emergency situation;

• Attach CCTV camera to the surveillance system or alarm button in the compartment;

• Provide sufficient light throughout the platform for the safe passage of passengers;

• Photographs of habitual offenders should be put in all visible areas to caution the general public;

• Railways should take steps to prevent hawkers, beggars, and ticketless passengers;

• Create awareness among the general public about toll-free number 182, Railway helpline numbers 139, and 112, and apps like India Mobile App etc.

It then directed the Railway authorities to review the steps taken by them as well as consider the suggestions made and take appropriate decisions in the matter.

The Court posted the case after the upcoming court vacation to ensure compliance with its directions.