PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, May 22: In a horrifying incident aboard the Howrah–Barbil Jan Shatabdi Express, a woman allegedly threw her one-and-a-half-month-old infant out of a moving train, leading to the baby’s death. She allegedly attempted to throw her three-year-old child as well, but alert passengers intervened and rescued the toddler.
Incident Between Rajkharsawan and Mahalimarup
The incident took place on Wednesday between Rajkharsawan and Mahalimarup stations under the Chakradharpur railway division.
According to eyewitnesses, the woman suddenly got up from her seat, carried the sleeping infant to the window, and threw the child out of the speeding train before fellow passengers could react. Panic spread inside the coach immediately after the incident.
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Passengers Save Three-Year-Old Child
Passengers said the woman then allegedly tried to throw her three-year-old child too, but co-passengers quickly restrained her and saved the toddler.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) were informed, and the woman was taken into custody after the train reached Chaibasa. A search operation was launched along the railway tracks, and the infant’s body was later recovered near the spot.
Police Probe Mental Health Angle
Police identified the accused as Mudravati Gop, a resident of Majhgaon in West Singhbhum district. Her husband, Shahabuddin, is reportedly from West Bengal. Investigators said the couple had eloped and married around four years ago. After marriage, the woman’s name was reportedly changed to Hasina Begum, and the family had been living in Hyderabad.
Officials said they are examining whether mental health issues, postpartum depression, family stress, or social pressure may have played a role in the incident. A psychological evaluation of the woman may also be conducted.
The incident has triggered widespread shock and concern over maternal mental health and passenger safety on trains.