Indian Railways Cracks Down on Crime: Over 52,000 Arrests in Five Years, Minimal Sabotage Incidents Reported
In a major push to enhance passenger safety and protect railway infrastructure, Indian Railways has reported significant progress in curbing crime and preventing sabotage across its vast network. According to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, more than 52,000 individuals have been arrested over the last five years (2021–2025), with over 50,000 offenders facing legal action in courts.
The data, presented in the Lok Sabha, highlights a robust enforcement mechanism led by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) in coordination with Government Railway Police (GRP) and state law enforcement agencies.
Massive Crackdown on Railway Property Crimes
The Railway Protection Force operates under the provisions of the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1966, which empowers it to investigate and prosecute crimes such as theft, misappropriation, and illegal possession of railway property.
Over the five-year period, enforcement agencies registered a large number of cases, leading to arrests and prosecution:
| Category | Figures (2021–2025) |
|---|---|
| Total persons arrested | 52,494 |
| Complaints filed in courts | 50,432 |
Authorities stated that after investigation, complaints are filed before Special Railway Magistrates or district courts where dedicated railway courts are not available, ensuring due legal process.
Stone Pelting Remains a Concern
Stone pelting on trains continues to pose a safety risk for passengers and railway staff. However, the data indicates strong action against offenders:
| Category | Figures (2021–2025) |
|---|---|
| Total incidents reported | 12,157 |
| Persons arrested | 8,441 |
Railway officials emphasized that coordinated efforts between RPF and GRP have helped in identifying culprits and reducing repeat incidents in vulnerable areas.
Minimal Derailments Due to Sabotage
Despite the scale of the railway network, incidents of derailment caused by miscreant activities have remained extremely rare. Only three such cases were reported across the country in five years:
| Location | Railway Division |
|---|---|
| Waltair | East Coast Railway |
| Jhansi | North Central Railway |
| Chennai | Southern Railway |
Officials described this as a strong indicator of improved vigilance and preventive mechanisms in place to secure railway tracks.
Multi-Layered Security Strategy in Place
Indian Railways has adopted a comprehensive and multi-layered approach to prevent criminal activities, especially those that could endanger train operations.
Key measures include:
- State-Level Coordination: Regular meetings of State Level Security Committees of Railways (SLSCR) chaired by Directors General of Police or Police Commissioners ensure coordination between RPF, GRP, and intelligence agencies.
- Enhanced Intelligence Network: Dedicated intelligence wings such as the Crime Intelligence Branch (CIB) and Special Intelligence Branch (SIB) actively gather and share information to prevent sabotage or organized crime.
- Patrolling of Vulnerable Zones: Frequent patrolling of identified “black spots” and sensitive sections is carried out jointly by railway and civil police forces.
- Preventive Clean-Up Drives: Regular removal of loose materials near railway tracks reduces the risk of such objects being used for obstruction or sabotage.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Communities living near railway tracks are being sensitized about the dangers and legal consequences of interfering with railway property, including placing objects on tracks or creating social media content that risks safety.
- Use of Technology: Surveillance has been strengthened through the deployment of drones and installation of solar-powered standalone CCTV cameras in remote and sensitive areas.
Focus on Safe Train Operations
Railway authorities stressed that ensuring the safe and uninterrupted movement of trains remains a top priority. Close coordination with central and state intelligence agencies has helped in early detection of threats and timely intervention.
The government believes that the combination of strict legal action, technological surveillance, and community participation has significantly reduced risks to railway operations.
Government Reaffirms Commitment
Responding to questions in Parliament, Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening railway safety and security. He noted that continuous monitoring, stronger enforcement, and public cooperation are key pillars in maintaining the integrity of one of the world’s largest rail networks.
With over 52,000 arrests and only three sabotage-related derailments in five years, Indian Railways’ intensified efforts signal a strong deterrent against crime and a safer travel environment for millions of passengers across the country.
