Dr. Ajoy Kumar Slams Government over Railway Safety

Ex-MP Dr. Ajoy Kumar criticizes NDA for neglecting public safety, cites recent train accidents

Former MP accuses Railway Minister of prioritizing publicity over passenger protection.

JAMSHEDPUR – Dr. Ajoy Kumar, former MP and Congress Working Committee member, launched a scathing attack on the NDA government, accusing it of indifference towards public safety in railways.

Speaking at a recent assembly, Kumar highlighted recent train accidents as evidence of governmental negligence.

"Prime Minister Modi’s 2019 promise to transform Indian Railways has been fulfilled in the worst way possible," Kumar stated, referencing recent Kanchenjunga and Dibrugarh Express incidents.

The Congress leader criticized Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, dubbing him the "Railway REEL Minister" for allegedly prioritizing social media over safety measures.

"Since Vaishnaw took office in July 2021, we’ve seen more publicity stunts than accountability," Kumar asserted.

Kumar cited the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety’s report on the Kanchenjunga Express accident, which identified faulty signals and poor operational management as key factors.

He also referenced a 2021 CAG report revealing misuse of the Rashtriya Rail Suraksha Kosh fund, allocated for passenger safety.

"Funds meant for safety improvements were spent on non-essential items like foot massagers and furniture," Kumar claimed, questioning the government’s priorities.

The former MP criticized the delay in implementing the ‘Kavach’ anti-collision system, comparing its cost favorably to the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project.

Kumar accused the Modi government of ignoring loco pilots’ concerns, which he said Rahul Gandhi had attempted to address.

"Since August 2021, 329 people have lost their lives due to train accidents and safety issues," Kumar stated, calling for immediate action to prevent further casualties.

The Congress leader’s statements highlight growing concerns over railway safety and the politicization of infrastructure development in India.

As train accidents continue to make headlines, pressure mounts on the government to address these critical safety issues in the national railway system.