New Delhi: A man from Maharashtra has alleged that he was attacked on board a train because of his religious identity, triggering concern and calls for action. The incident reportedly took place during a journey on the Manmad-Kakinada-Shirdi Express.
The person is identified as Hafiz Mohammad Imran and as per the reports he was travelling when the train halted at Hafeezpet railway station in Hyderabad.
According to him, there was already a heated argument between a few passengers inside the coach. Imran said he approached the group simply to understand what had happened and why tensions had flared.
What followed, he claims, was completely unexpected. In his complaint, Imran alleged that he was suddenly pulled aside and assaulted by a group of men. He has claimed that he was targeted because he had a beard and was wearing a cap which he believes led to him being identified and singled out.
Imran further alleged that around 20 people were involved in the attack. He said a friend who stepped in to defend him was also pushed and beaten during the scuffle. He added that the situation escalated quickly and left him shaken.
He told the authorities that he can identify those involved and is ready to cooperate fully with the investigation. He also stated that questioning other passengers present in the coach would help establish what exactly took place.
Maharashtra; Muslim man beaten in train near Latur city. Helpless Imran Sayyed says he was targeted by Hindutva goons due to his religious identity, skullcap and Beard pic.twitter.com/TcTHxZztfC
— Hira Waheed (Follow Back) (@hirawaheed93) February 12, 2026
Political reaction and police response
Following the complaint, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen raised the issue and demanded strict action against those responsible. Party leaders described the incident as deeply troubling especially as it allegedly occurred in a public space like a train.
Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway. Officials said all angles are being examined and assured that legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty once the inquiry is completed.