Mumbai’s local trains are often referred to as the lifeline of the city. Millions of people journey to and from them every day with a belief that these spaces are safe spaces. Recently, though, a man in a burqa caught molesting women on a crowded train shocked passengers. As a result, this case calls into question the misuse of clothing for purposes of cultural and religious identity and how perverts can use it as an escape hatch.
The man reportedly was a member of what locals called a “peaceful community.” He boarded a local train in Mumbai in a burqa, blending in with women passengers. But when inside, he started to harass and molest women, using the disguise. Passengers quickly alerted to his suspicious behavior and confronted him. A report was made to the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and a formal complaint against him was made.
A man from the 'peaceful community' dressed in a burqa was caught molesting women in Mumbai local train.
— Team Hindu United (@TeamHinduUnited) February 7, 2026
Alert passengers filed a complaint with RPF.
Burqa as disguise for perverts? pic.twitter.com/5pCDPY0bSL
The matter has raised the ire of commuters and people in the streets. And that was, indeed, anger at a garment used for modesty and respect being misused by the perpetrators for criminal reasons. Women passengers especially expressed their fear and frustration, that such actions cause feelings of insecurity on public transport. Discussion on social media also underlined the need for extra vigilance in trains and stations.
This is not just one man’s crime, this serves as an example of a broader problem. This can be taken as just one reason why criminals may use a mask for a disguise to cover their identity and avoid being recognized. Like any other full-body covering, the burqa can be abused in this way. But the error resides in the person’s heart, the problem is with the person not the garment. To cast the burqa or whatever kind of cultural garments is an unfair affront to the many women who dress with dignity and faith.
Local trains have been called for heavier monitoring by passengers. Suggestions: More female RPF staff are assigned to different compartments. Random checks after suspicious behavior is observed. Public awareness campaigns. Encouragement for commuters to report harassment immediately. Authorities say they will thoroughly investigate the matter and take action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Another example: the Mumbai train incident is a warning to be vigilant in the name of public safety. Offenders may use disguises, though the onus is on law enforcement and the public to spot it. Cultural attire must remain respectful, but its wrongful use for crime should never fail to prompt punishment.
