Tatanagar Railway yard death sparks standoff

Family demands compensation, job before funeral

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, June 8: Tension continues to prevail over the death of young technician Ashish Majhi, who succumbed to severe burn injuries after coming into contact with a high-voltage overhead power line while working in the Tatanagar railway yard. The deceased’s family has refused to conduct the last rites until the Railway administration provides written assurance on compensation and employment.

A tripartite meeting chaired by Area Rail Manager (ARM) Sameer Saurabh on Monday, involving Railway officials, family members, public representatives and social activists, failed to reach a consensus. The nearly two-hour discussion was the second round of talks, but no concrete decision was taken on the family’s key demands, including a permanent Railway job for a family member and compensation of at least ₹50 lakh.

The family maintained that since the accident occurred during duty hours within Railway premises, the administration must assume full responsibility for their rehabilitation. While Railway officials reportedly expressed a positive outlook regarding financial assistance and compassionate appointment, they stopped short of issuing any written commitment, leading to a deadlock.

Family members stated that verbal assurances were insufficient and reiterated that Ashish Majhi’s funeral would not take place until formal written guarantees were provided. The prolonged uncertainty has fuelled public anger, with villagers and local residents warning of large-scale protests, including rail gate blockades and demonstrations, if their demands remain unaddressed.
District Council member Kusum Purti criticised the lack of progress despite two rounds of negotiations, describing the situation as unfortunate. She said the family would continue its struggle for justice and that the demand for adequate compensation and employment would not be withdrawn.
According to available information, Ashish Majhi, a resident of Shankarpur in Parsudih, suffered critical burn injuries on May 30 while repairing the rooftop air-conditioning system of a Vande Bharat Express coach stationed at Tatanagar. He accidentally came into contact with an overhead high-tension electric line and was rushed to Tata Main Hospital (TMH), where he remained under treatment before succumbing to his injuries.
The family, supported by local residents and social organisations, has also demanded a fair investigation into the incident. With negotiations still inconclusive and protest plans gathering momentum, pressure is mounting on the Railway administration to find an early resolution.