25 June,2026 02:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Vidhan Bhavan. File Photo
The fatal stabbing of a 22-year-old commuter aboard a Mumbai suburban train echoed in the Maharashtra Assembly on Thursday, with Opposition members demanding a discussion on commuter safety and calling for a detailed response from the state government.
The issue prompted Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to direct the government to present a statement in the House on June 29 outlining the facts of the case, the progress of the investigation and the steps being taken to improve passenger safety on Mumbai's suburban railway network.
The incident has sparked concerns over law and order on one of the world's busiest suburban rail systems, which carries millions of commuters every day.
Congress MLA Nana Patole raised the matter during proceedings, describing the murder as a matter of grave concern that highlighted the vulnerability of passengers travelling on Mumbai local trains.
He said the incident had raised serious questions about the safety of commuters using the suburban railway network, which serves nearly 80 lakh passengers daily.
"It is unfortunate that such a grave incident has taken place in Mumbai despite security measures being in place. The government should immediately investigate the matter and inform the House about the action taken," he said.
Patole also stressed that the victim's family had suffered immense trauma and urged the authorities to ensure that justice was delivered without delay.
Responding to the concerns raised by legislators, Speaker Rahul Narwekar acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and directed the government to place its response before the Assembly.
"Considering the seriousness of the issue and the concerns expressed by members across the House, the government should present a statement on Monday (June 29) detailing the facts of the incident, the progress of the investigation and the measures being taken," Narwekar said.
The statement is expected to cover the circumstances surrounding the murder, the status of the investigation and the government's plans to strengthen security for suburban rail commuters.
The issue was raised following the murder of 22-year-old Mayank Lohar on board a moving Mumbai suburban train on Tuesday night.
According to the Government Railway Police, the incident occurred inside a first-class compartment between Andheri and Borivali stations on the Western Railway line.
Investigators said an argument broke out between passengers over whether the train doors should remain open during the heavy rains. During the altercation, the accused allegedly pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed Lohar.
The incident sent shockwaves among commuters and renewed concerns over passenger safety on Mumbai's crowded suburban trains.
The accused, identified as 30-year-old Sachin Ramesh Suvarna, was arrested by the Government Railway Police at Panvel in neighbouring Navi Mumbai within hours of the incident.
Police have launched an investigation into the case and are examining the sequence of events that led to the fatal assault.
The murder has triggered political attention in the state legislature, with Opposition members seeking stronger safety measures and greater accountability from the government to ensure the security of millions of passengers who rely on Mumbai's suburban railway network every day.
(With inputs from PTI)
