Bhubaneswar, Aug. 21 (UDN): A security concern has emerged at the busy Bhubaneswar Railway Station after a youth allegedly vandalised a food stall on Platform No. 1 and was later beaten by passengers and other people present at the spot.

The incident reportedly took place on August 11 during the night. The youth has been identified as Bharat Behera of Talagaon in Boudh district.

Shop vandalised over food

According to sources, Bharat had arrived at the railway station and allegedly attempted to take food items from a closed shop. When the stall was not accessible, he allegedly damaged the shop and its property.

A video of the incident, which has since circulated widely on social media, purportedly shows the youth vandalising the food stall.

The situation reportedly escalated when passengers and others at the station caught hold of him and assaulted him. Another video circulating online shows the youth with his hands tied and being beaten while lying on the platform.

Questions over security

The incident has raised questions about security arrangements at the railway station, particularly over the alleged absence of Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel during the initial confrontation.

The youth was subsequently taken to the GRP police station. During the inquiry, police reportedly found that Bharat was experiencing mental health-related difficulties.

GRP registers case after video surfaces

Sources said the matter was initially settled at the police station after the youth was handed over to the GRP.

However, following the circulation of the assault video on social media, the GRP reportedly took suo motu cognisance of the incident and registered a case. An investigation is now underway to establish the circumstances surrounding both the alleged vandalism and the subsequent assault.

The incident has also renewed concerns over the need for prompt intervention by security personnel at crowded public places to prevent situations from escalating into violence.