A Disturbing Encounter on a Train Journey

In a troubling incident during a train ride, Surekha faces harassment from a group of boys and transgender individuals. Despite her attempts to seek help from nearby men, they remain indifferent, highlighting the ongoing issues of women's safety in public spaces. This encounter raises critical questions about societal attitudes and the need for change. Read on to explore the full story and its implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 14:30 IST

An Unsettling Experience

On this particular day, the train was less crowded than usual. Surekha placed her office bag on an empty seat and settled down beside it.

In the entire compartment, apart from a few men, Surekha was the only woman. It was nighttime, and everyone seemed drowsy, either chatting softly or dozing off.

Suddenly, a group of 3-4 transgender individuals entered the compartment, clapping their hands and demanding 5-10 rupees from the men.

Some complied quietly, while others murmured in annoyance.

"Could you please spare us from this collection at night, Aunty?"

They ignored Surekha and moved on.

After a brief halt, a few boys boarded the train and rushed towards the front, with Surekha's destination still an hour away.

The group of boys gathered near Surekha, and one of them leered at her, saying, "Madam, you should pick up your bag; the seat is for sitting, not for your belongings."

His friends joined in with crude laughter.

Surekha lifted her bag and squeezed into her seat.

The boys settled down next to her.

She cast a pleading glance at the two or three men sitting across from her, but they pretended she didn't exist.

One boy ran his finger along Surekha's arm, while the others encouraged him with their lewd laughter.

"Hey, mister, show some decency!"

Surekha stood up and raised her voice.

The men in the compartment continued to act oblivious, lost in their own world.

"Oh no, Madam is upset! Sit down, Madam; our destination is still far, and we will entertain you until then," said a boy with betel-stained teeth, grabbing her hand.

It felt as if all the seats in the compartment were occupied by stone statues.

Meanwhile, the transgender individuals heard Surekha's voice and approached her.

"What entertainment will you provide? We will entertain you!"

"Shabana, lift your skirt; this smooth one is full of youthful energy!"

"Oh, look at that face; even a pig wouldn't touch it!"

"This one is full of mischief; Julie, strip them down, let’s have some fun!"

As the bulky transgender named Julie advanced towards the boys, they bolted towards the train door and jumped out of the slowly moving train.

Surekha's tear-filled eyes turned towards the so-called men, who were engrossed in their phones, avoiding her gaze.

Meanwhile, the real men had moved on, clapping and heading towards another compartment.