Bravery medal for RPF constable who saved woman from rapist on moving train

Constable K Shivaji was on night patrol on April 23 when he heard screams for help coming from the adjacent coach. As soon as the train slowed down, Shivaji jumped out of his coach and entered the other compartment where he saw a man allegedly attempting to rape a young woman.

The constable immediately overpowered the man and rescued the woman, who was found unconscious with her lips bleeding and clothes torn.

Receiving an internal recommendation, Union Railway Minister Goyal, who had declared 2018 as women’s safety year, approved the award for the officer, as it highlighted the national carrier’s commitment to women’s security.

“The very act of taking on the assailant single-handedly, without minding his own safety, speaks volumes of his dedication and commitment to women security, and thereby set an example before others, and bolstered the image of Railways in general and the RPF in particular. K Shivaji of Southern Railway... may be considered for grant of Ministry of Railways Medal for Bravery, treating it an exceptional case other than the yearly nominations which are called for,” said a file noting recommending his name. The medal for bravery carries a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh.