Commuter organisations across the city have blasted the Central Railway (CR) over the dacoity and gang-rape in a crowded second class compartment of the Pushpak Express near Mumbai. They say it raises doubts not just on the safety of women but also points out how passengers are left to fend for themselves during such incidents.

Frequent travellers on the train said that throughout the journey, unauthorised hawkers keep freely walking in and out of the compartments, including the AC ones. “The train staff is aware of this being a routine affair. How can the train be safe with so many unauthorised people onboard,” asked Ranjan Sinha, a passenger.