Kerala : Azharudeen arrested for pelting stones at Vande Bharat train

Azharudeen, who pelted stones at the Vande Bharat train in Kerala, arrested

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) – Stones were hurled at the ultra-modern Vande Bharat train operating on the Thiruvananthapuram–Mangaluru route in Kerala. In connection with the incident, the Railway Police have arrested 23-year-old Azharudeen.

The accused allegedly pelted stones at night while the train was passing between Thalassery and Kannur railway stations. The attack damaged the train’s window panes, resulting in a loss of ₹25,000 to the Railways. Although five other individuals were present at the scene, police investigations have concluded that only Azharudeen carried out the act.

Following the incident, Railway officials expressed concern over passenger safety, stating that acts such as stone-pelting can pose a serious threat to travellers.

In 2025, several incidents of stone-pelting targeting Vande Bharat and other railway services were reported. In connection with these cases, more than 1,000 individuals were arrested.

Editorial Perspective

It has repeatedly come to light through such incidents that while certain communities may be minorities in the country, they appear disproportionately represented in various spheres of crime. It would therefore not be surprising if demands arise to withdraw the constitutional rights granted to such offenders.