Kerala Woman Pushed From Moving Train Near Varkala Remains Critical; Accused Remanded

Thiruvananthapuram: The condition of the 20-year-old woman who was pushed out of a moving train near Varkala remains extremely critical, hospital authorities said on Tuesday.

The victim, Sreekutty (also known as Sonu), from Palode in Thiruvananthapuram, continues to undergo intensive treatment at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital for serious head and skull injuries. Hospital sources said she suffered multiple fractures and deep wounds to the head after falling between the tracks.

Health Minister Veena George has directed the formation of a special medical board to ensure expert care for her, noting that the government will bear all medical expenses.

Police have identified the accused as Suresh Kumar (50), a resident of Panachamoodu in Vellarada, who was caught by passengers shortly after the incident and handed over to the Railway Police at Kochuveli station. The accused was later produced before a court and remanded in custody, police confirmed.

According to investigators, Suresh Kumar, who was reportedly intoxicated, pushed Sreekutty out of the Kerala Express with the intent to kill. He also attempted to push her friend Archana, but passengers intervened and prevented another tragedy.

The shocking incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Sunday, shortly after the Kerala Express left Varkala railway station. When the two friends returned from the toilet, the accused, who was standing near the door, allegedly kicked Sreekutty out of the moving train. Hearing her screams, other passengers rushed to the spot, pulled the emergency chain, and restrained the accused.

A large search operation was launched by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and local police, who later found the victim unconscious in the bushes near Ayantipalam, about two kilometres from Varkala station. She was initially taken to a nearby private hospital and later shifted to the Medical College for advanced care.

Police said the accused has confessed to the crime, claiming that he acted out of anger when the victim did not move away from the door. A case of attempted murder under Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code has been registered. Officials said the investigation will also examine whether the accused had harassed other passengers before the attack.

Archana, the victim’s friend, told reporters that the assault was unprovoked. “He suddenly kicked her out of the door and tried to pull me too. Passengers screamed and held me back,” she said.

Hospital authorities said the next 48 hours will be crucial for Sreekutty’s recovery.