The Railway Protection Force (RPF) detained eight minors on Sunday (June 14) for pelting stones on a Vande Bharat Express on May 28.A incident on train no. 20644 Coimbatore-Chennai Central Vande Bharat Express occurred when it was running between Veerapandi Road and Salem railway stations on May 28 morning.The emergency window glass on the right side of coach C-1 was damaged, but no passenger was injured. A case was registered at the RPF Post Salem under Section 153 of the Railways Act, and a special investigation team was constituted to nab the culprits.According to the RPF, the team conducted field inquiries, gathered intelligence and interacted with local residents to identify the culprits.The RPF said the matter was handled in accordance with the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. The juveniles were produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, Salem, which released them into the care of their parents on surety and directed them to remain under observation for one year, subject to the conditions imposed by the board.The Salem Railway Division said in a press release that the stone pelting on running trains was highly dangerous and posed serious threat to passenger safety, railway property and train operations. Such offences were dealt with under the relevant provisions of the Railways Act.The RPF of Salem Division intensified its drive against incidents of stone pelting on running trains. The Division appealed to the public, particularly those residing or playing near railway tracks, to refrain from engaging in such dangerous activities. The division also urged passengers, the public and stakeholders to immediately report any suspicious behaviour near railway tracks to the RPF or police. Published - June 14, 2026 05:53 pm IST