Key Takeaways
- Railway police searches in India are being conducted without CCTV surveillance
- Passengers are being extorted and subjected to illegal activities
- The use of body-worn cameras could increase transparency and accountability
What happened
Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel in Mumbai are allegedly searching passengers at spots without CCTV surveillance, despite guidelines requiring inspections to be recorded and conducted under surveillance.
A visit to Borivli, Mumbai Central, and Bandra stations found passengers being taken to GRP rooms, under-staircase areas, and other spots without CCTV coverage.
Why it matters
The issue comes amid allegations of GRP personnel demanding money and helping drug networks, with four personnel recently suspended in two cases.
The guidelines require inspections to be recorded, nameplates to be worn, and searches to be conducted under CCTV surveillance.
By the numbers
- 13 GRP personnel, including a senior inspector, were suspended in 2025 for passenger extortion.
- 4 personnel were recently suspended in two cases.
- 30,000 rupees were extorted from a passenger at Mumbai Central in 2025.
What it means for you
Passengers are being searched at spots without CCTV, which can lead to extortion and other illegal activities.
Railway passenger activist Samir Zaveri said that the lack of CCTV cameras in certain areas is a major concern.
As a passenger, it is essential to be aware of your rights and the guidelines that are in place to protect you.
What happens next
Mumbai Railway Police Commissioner Rakesh Kalasagar said that clear guidelines and an SOP have been issued, and that he reiterated the same during the last crime review meeting.
Activists are urging prominent display of the guidelines and compliance, as well as the use of body-worn cameras.
The use of body-worn cameras, as suggested by Siddhesh Desai, vice-president of Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sanghtana, could be an effective way to increase transparency and accountability.
Expert Perspective
Railway passenger activist Samir Zaveri emphasized the need for prominent display of the guidelines and compliance.
Commissioner Rakesh Kalasagar assured that the guidelines are being followed, but the lack of CCTV cameras in certain areas remains a concern.
Implications for Readers in India
The issue of railway police searches without CCTV surveillance is not limited to Mumbai, and passengers across India should be aware of their rights and the guidelines that are in place to protect them.
As the Indian railway network continues to expand, it is essential to ensure that the safety and security of passengers are prioritized.
What to Watch Next
The implementation of body-worn cameras and the display of guidelines at railway stations could be a significant step towards increasing transparency and accountability.
The Indian government's response to the issue and the measures taken to address the concerns of passengers will be crucial in restoring trust in the railway police.
Timeline of Events
2008: The railway police guidelines were strengthened after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
2025: 13 GRP personnel, including a senior inspector, were suspended for passenger extortion.
2025: A passenger was extorted of Rs 30,000 at Mumbai Central.
2026: Four personnel were suspended in two cases, including allegations of assistance to gutkha suppliers and releasing a drug suspect after accepting money.
Background
The railway police guidelines require inspections to be recorded, nameplates to be worn, and searches to be conducted under CCTV surveillance.
The guidelines also require senior inspector presence, video recording when necessary, legal action on objectionable items or excess cash, and reasonable cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the guidelines for railway police searches in India?
The guidelines require inspections to be recorded, nameplates to be worn, and searches to be conducted under CCTV surveillance.
What is being done to address the issue of railway police searches without CCTV surveillance?
Activists are urging prominent display of the guidelines and compliance, as well as the use of body-worn cameras.
How can passengers protect themselves from extortion and illegal activities?
Passengers should be aware of their rights and the guidelines that are in place to protect them, and report any incidents of extortion or illegal activities to the authorities.
