Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Rail passenger safety in Jharkhand has come under serious question as Government Railway Police (GRP) stations across the state reportedly function without basic infrastructure such as lockups, storage rooms, and barracks, raising concerns about operational efficiency and security preparedness.
Severe Infrastructure Deficit In GRP Stations
Jharkhand has 23 Government Railway Police stations, five outposts, and 10 police posts. However, many of these operate from cramped rooms inside railway station premises or from dilapidated buildings. In several locations, there are no proper lockups (hajats), no designated malkhanas for storing seized items, and no barracks for personnel accommodation.
This lack of infrastructure raises a critical question: how can passenger safety be effectively ensured when the police themselves lack fundamental resources?
No Proper Lockup Facilities For Accused
Sources indicate that when GRP personnel arrest suspects, they often have no separate lockup to detain them. In some cases, accused individuals are kept in the same rooms where officers perform duty and rest. Temporary or unsafe spaces are reportedly used in certain locations, creating security vulnerabilities. There have been instances where accused persons allegedly escaped due to these inadequate arrangements, further exposing systemic weaknesses.
Absence Of Malkhana Puts Evidence At Risk
The absence of proper malkhanas has also created challenges in safely storing confiscated goods related to theft, robbery, and other crimes. Seized items are often kept in temporary cupboards or rooms, increasing the risk of evidence mishandling and affecting legal proceedings.
Poor Living Conditions For Personnel
GRP personnel reportedly face difficult working and living conditions. Many stations lack proper barracks and sanitation facilities. Officers are compelled to stay and work in the same limited space, affecting morale and operational efficiency.
Construction Stalled Over Land And Funding Issues
Officials have reportedly sent multiple proposals for constructing new GRP buildings. However, the process has stalled due to land allocation issues and funding constraints. It is understood that while the Centre required land allocation by the state government, the process did not move forward, leading to prolonged delays. Meanwhile, several other states operate modern railway police stations equipped with updated facilities.
Accountability And Way Forward
With increasing passenger footfall and rising crime concerns at railway stations, the fragile state of GRP infrastructure remains a serious issue. The situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated action between the state and central governments to strengthen facilities and ensure effective rail security across Jharkhand.
