Mumbai News: Gunfire at Badlapur Railway Station Leaves One Injured; Shooter Arrested Amidst Panic
A man was shot and injured in a violent altercation at the crowded Badlapur railway station in Thane district on Thursday evening, triggering panic among commuters. The shooting, linked to gang rivalry, took place at Platform No. 1 around 6 p.m., according to the Government Railway Police (GRP). The entire incident was captured on camera, with footage quickly circulating on social media.
The conflict reportedly stemmed from a financial dispute between four men, all with criminal backgrounds. The individuals involved were identified as Shankar Sansare, Vikas Pagare, Atish Rokade, and Rohit Dhotre, all hailing from Ulhasnagar’s Powai village. The argument escalated when Vikas Pagare, in a fit of rage, shot Shankar Sansare in the leg during their confrontation outside the station.
Panic erupted as thousands of commuters waiting for a Karjat-bound local heard the gunshots. Fearing for their lives, passengers scrambled to flee, causing a stampede-like situation. Several people sustained minor injuries in the chaos.
Pagare attempted to escape by running towards the railway tracks but was quickly apprehended by on-duty policemen and some brave commuters. The second man Pagare targeted escaped unharmed, though his identity has not been disclosed. Sansare was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment and is currently recovering from his gunshot wounds.
Initial investigations revealed that all involved parties have a history of criminal activities and were involved in contract work. They had been externed from their respective towns and were residing in Ulhasnagar. The shooting is believed to be a result of long-standing enmity and financial disagreements between the individuals.
Eyewitnesses at the station described the scene as terrifying. “It was the most frightening incident I’ve ever witnessed. People were running in every direction, trying to avoid the gunfire,” said a 34-year-old passenger who narrowly escaped the chaos.
Following the incident, commuters and local residents expressed outrage over the increasing criminal activities in the area. “Passengers are demanding strict action against these criminals who are freely roaming the city and putting innocent lives at risk,” said Amol Parab, who arrived at the station to pick up his sister shortly after the shooting.
The GRP’s Kalyan unit, which oversees the area, has registered an FIR against the accused and is conducting a thorough investigation. Senior officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central Railway), visited the crime scene to assess the situation and ensure proper action is taken.