Teen Stabbed to Death by Friend at Kolkata Metro Station Sparks Security Concerns

A violent altercation at Dakshineswar Metro Station led to the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Manojit Yadav by a friend. The incident raises serious security concerns regarding passenger safety and weapon screening in the Metro system.

A 17-year-old student, Manojit Yadav from Baranagar, was fatally stabbed during a dispute with a friend at Dakshineswar Metro Station on Friday afternoon. This incident caused panic among commuters and raised serious security concerns. According to a senior police officer, the altercation escalated, leading to another friend allegedly stabbing Manojit with a knife.

The accused was apprehended later that day at Howrah station while attempting to flee. "We arrested him while he was attempting to board a train and escape," the officer stated. Initial investigations revealed that Manojit, who frequently used the Metro with his friends to travel home, succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital.

Security Concerns at Metro Stations

The presence of a weapon in a high-security Metro zone has raised questions about potential lapses in passenger screening and surveillance. Police have initiated an investigation and are reviewing CCTV footage to determine how the assailant managed to bring a knife into the Metro premises. The incident has prompted authorities to reassess existing security measures.

A Metro Railway spokesperson clarified that the stabbing occurred in a non-ticketing area near the Dakshineshwar temple end of the Metro entry gate, not on the platform or inside the turnstile gate. When asked if this area falls within Metro Railway premises, he confirmed it does but noted that it is challenging for RPF personnel to monitor every individual's movement before the turnstile gate and behind the ticket counter.

Response from Authorities

Following the incident, Metro Railway issued a statement assuring commuters there was no cause for worry. "An unfortunate incident of alleged stabbing has taken place in the non-ticketing area of Dakshineswar Metro station. Metro authorities have immediately taken appropriate measures and police authorities are investigating the incident," it said.

The spokesperson mentioned that there is stringent security at turnstile gates with metal detectors, ensuring anyone carrying weapons cannot pass through. However, they are currently assessing and evaluating the existing security system to prevent such incidents in the future.

As panic spread among commuters at the crowded station, many expressed their concerns on social media. The incident has highlighted the need for enhanced security measures and better surveillance in public transport areas to ensure commuter safety.

With inputs from PTI