Army Soldier Killed on Train Over Blanket Dispute

On November 2, 2025, a grave incident occurred when an Indian Army soldier was fatally stabbed by a coach attendant during a dispute regarding a blanket and bedsheet aboard a moving train in Rajasthan. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has intervened, demanding an unbiased investigation and decisive action against the railway staff involved.

The deceased, Jigar Chaudhary, an army jawan on leave, was en route to his home in Sabarmati, Gujarat, traveling on the 19224 Jammu Tawi–Sabarmati Express. After boarding the non-AC sleeper coach at Firozpur station in Punjab, he requested a blanket and bedsheet from the attendant, Zubair Memon. Reports indicate that Memon, who is contracted, refused the request, leading to a heated argument.

The situation escalated when Memon reportedly stabbed Chaudhary with a knife, resulting in the soldier’s death. Upon reaching Bikaner, the Government Railway Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) based on a complaint from the train's ticket examiner. Memon was arrested, and the weapon was recovered; he has since been dismissed from railway service.

In response, the NHRC has issued formal notices to the Railway Board Chairman and the Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), requesting a detailed assessment of Memon's employment history, qualifications, training, and police checks. The NHRC emphasized that these allegations signify serious human rights violations and has mandated a report on actions taken within two weeks.

The NHRC is advocating for justice for the soldier and insists on holding the railway personnel accountable, stressing the need for enhanced safety and oversight in passenger services.

This distressing occurrence has sparked significant concerns regarding safety aboard Indian trains and the vetting and supervision of railway workers, especially those hired through outside contractors. Investigations continue, with the NHRC ensuring that justice prevails.