WATCH: New CCTV Footage Surfaces In Delhi–Bhopal Vande Bharat Assault Case Involving BJP MLA

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A CCTV video has surfaced related to the June 19 incident on the New Delhi–Rani Kamlapati Vande Bharat Express, where a passenger was assaulted. 

The new footage shows the moments just before the violence broke out inside coach E2 of the train.

The video captures BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha standing near the coach entrance with a police officer. 

Soon, a passenger - seated next to the victim, Raj Prakash - approaches and starts arguing with the MLA. 

Rajprakash also joins, and both passengers are seen speaking aggressively, pointing fingers, and confronting the MLA and the officer. The argument continues for nearly a-minute-and-a-half before the two passengers return to their seats. Shortly afterward, the physical assault occurs.

According to reports, MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha, traveling from Delhi with his wife and son, had seat number 8. His wife and son were assigned seats 50 and 51, while seat 49—next to them—was occupied by Rajprakash. The MLA requested Rajprakash to switch seats so the family could sit together, but he refused.

When the train stopped at Jhansi station, around 8 to 10 men entered the coach and attacked Rajprakash with punches, slaps, and even slippers.

An earlier CCTV video, which emerged four days ago, showed Rajprakash being brutally assaulted by the group. One man slapped him first, followed by a group attack lasting about 35 seconds. The MLA is seen among the attackers during this time. Former minister and BJP leader Ramniwas Rawat was also present nearby but did not intervene.

In the footage, an attacker is seen removing Rajprakash's bag from the luggage rack and placing it near the train’s door. A police officer, possibly the MLA's bodyguard, later picks up the bag. Rajprakash is seen retrieving it after the train departs.

MLA Rajeev Singh claimed the passengers were sitting in an "indecent posture" and eating, causing discomfort to others. He said he only requested them to sit properly and later went to the gallery to defuse the situation. He alleged that the passengers misunderstood his intentions and began arguing.

The BJP has issued a show-cause notice to MLA Parichha, asking him to respond within seven days. If his explanation is not satisfactory, disciplinary action may follow.