In a shocking display of violence at Mirzapur railway station, a group of Kanwariyas—devotees participating in the annual Kanwar Yatra—allegedly assaulted a CRPF jawan during a dispute over train tickets. The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight, was captured on CCTV and has since gone viral on social media, drawing nationwide condemnation.

The confrontation occurred on Saturday morning when the CRPF soldier, dressed in uniform and preparing to board the Brahmaputra Mail, got into an argument with some saffron-clad pilgrims. The disagreement quickly spiraled into a physical attack. In the video footage, the jawan is seen being surrounded, shoved to the ground, and repeatedly kicked and punched by a group of men.

One passenger at the scene can be seen trying to intervene, pulling one of the attackers away. Despite the attempt, the mob continues to beat the jawan. After initially being helped up, the CRPF personnel attempts to confront the group again, only to be slapped and knocked down once more.

RPF: 7 Kanwariyas Arrested for Beating CRPF Jawan

The Railway Protection Force responded swiftly to the incident. “Seven Kanwariyas have been arrested in the case of beating up a CRPF jawan,” confirmed RPF in-charge Inspector Chaman Singh Tomar. He further stated, “Around 9.30 am today, the CRPF jawan was waiting to board the Brahmaputra Mail when he had an argument with some men in red clothes. We have taken seven people into custody and further investigation is on.”

The CRPF jawan’s identity has not been disclosed, and details about the extent of his injuries remain unclear. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the accused.

The Kanwar Yatra, a major annual pilgrimage observed during the Hindu month of Shravan, sees Lord Shiva’s devotees carrying Ganga water in earthen pots (kanwars) on foot to offer at temples. This year, the Yatra began on July 11 and will conclude on July 23.

CRPF Assault Sparks Security Concerns During Yatra

The violent encounter has prompted serious concerns about security and crowd control during such large-scale religious gatherings. Footage of the incident has flooded social media platforms, intensifying scrutiny of law enforcement preparedness during the Yatra season.

In a separate case linked to Yatra-related unrest, police apprehended a 31-year-old man identified as Sonu Mainuddin near Baghpat Adda for causing a public disturbance. Officers on patrol attempted to calm him as he rode a motorcycle recklessly and shouted continuously. When he failed to comply, he was taken into custody.

These back-to-back incidents have raised pressing questions about maintaining law and order during religious events that attract massive public participation. Officials have pledged to remain vigilant as the Yatra continues in its final days.