Attempt to Target Army Special Train in Ratlam Raises Serious Security Concerns

Report by: Syed Taskin Ahmed 

Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), September 23, 2024 — A major security lapse has come to light after an attempt was made to target a special Indian Army train in Ratlam. Officials discovered detonators placed on the railway track as the train, carrying both personnel and weapons, was passing through the region. The incident sparked panic among railway and security officials and has raised fresh concerns over rail safety.

According to sources, the discovery comes amid a series of similar attempts to disrupt railway operations since August, with previous incidents reported in Kanpur and Uttarakhand.

Following the incident, the Indian Railways initially termed it a “mischievous act,” but senior officials acknowledged the seriousness of the matter. A railway employee has reportedly been detained for questioning, though no official confirmation has been provided yet.

The Indian Army has also sought permission to interrogate key railway staff, including signalmen and trackmen, in order to trace the motive and those responsible behind the act.

Security agencies view the matter as highly sensitive, given the involvement of an Army convoy and its cargo. Investigators are now working to determine whether this was an act of sabotage, a targeted attempt, or merely a disruptive mischief.

The incident has prompted both the Army and Railways to review and strengthen security measures across critical routes. Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway to identify the culprits and prevent future attempts.