The denial of bail to Chetansinh Chaudhary, a dismissed Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable accused of a heinous train shooting that claimed four lives, underscored the gravity of his actions. The court's decision, citing Chaudhary's "well-settled position and mind" during the crime, highlighted concerning details about the incident.
The Additional Sessions Judge (Dindoshi Court), AZ Khan, categorically rejected Chaudhary's bail plea, deeming the offence too severe for leniency. The court's assertion that Chaudhary targeted specific victims from a particular community added another disturbing layer to the case, emphasizing premeditated intentions.
The court's observations were stark: Chaudhary's words and actions suggested a disturbing mental state, displaying a chilling determination to target individuals based on their community. The rejection of his bail plea reflected the severity of his alleged hate-driven crime.
Chaudhary, incarcerated in a jail in Akola, Maharashtra, was present during the court proceedings. His bail plea, citing haunting illusions and erratic behavior, was countered by the prosecution, which highlighted his apparent animosity towards a particular community and his lack of remorse for the tragic events.
The Government Railway Police (RPF), investigating the case, vehemently opposed his bail, expressing concerns about potential repercussions on public perception, law enforcement, and religious groups' sense of security.
Additionally, the victim's spouse, Umesa Khatoon, voiced strong opposition to Chaudhary's release, labeling him a "terrorist-minded person" and a threat to national security. The advocates representing the victim's family highlighted the brutality of the murders witnessed by numerous individuals, echoing the nation's shock at the grievous incident.
The tragedy unfolded on the Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express near Palghar railway station, where Chaudhary allegedly used an automatic weapon to fatally shoot his senior colleague and three passengers. His attempt to flee was thwarted by alert passengers who halted the train at Mira Road and aided in his capture.
In October, the police filed a chargesheet against Chaudhary under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder and promoting enmity between groups, as well as relevant provisions of the Railways Act and Maharashtra Prevention Of Defacement of Property Act.
The court's refusal of bail reflects the serious nature of the alleged crimes and underscores the need for a thorough investigation into this tragic and deeply troubling incident.
