Working Mom Woes: RPF Officer Carries Baby On Duty After Delhi Stampede

On Saturday, February 15, a big crowd gathered at the New Delhi Railway Station, all bound for the Maha Kumbh snaan (holy dip) over the weekend. That night, an unexpected announcement, regarding a change in the platform for a Kumbh-bound train, sparked chaos among the passengers. Around 9:00 p.m., a tragic stampede followed as panic broke out when people tried to board the train. It was already too late when the authorities finally stepped in.

At least 18 people died and many more have suffered serious injuries. Following the incident, railway officials are on high alert and security has been strengthened at the railway station.

Amidst this, a female RPF constable called Reena was seen handling two roles at the same time–her duty as an officer as well as a mother. 

Have a look at this video: 

#नईदिल्लीरेलवेस्टेशन पर RPF की सिपाही रीना गोद में बच्चा लेकर की ड्यूटी कर रही हैं. प्लेटफॉर्म पर भगदड़ न मचे, इसके लिए रीना यात्रियों को सतर्क कर रही थीं. #Delhi#trainaccident #NewDelhiRailwaystation #NewDelhiRailwayStationStampede #STAMPEDE #StampedeInDelhi #stampededeaths pic.twitter.com/Q4pZFXUKeO

— Rajkumar Pandey (@rajkumaarlive) February 17, 2025

Constable Reena was managing both her duty as well as taking care of her 1-year-old child, tied to her chest. Several videos of the incident went viral on social media, however, they met with a mixed reaction. While Reena has been appraised for her dedication by some people, others have also criticised her for carrying a child in such a dangerous situation.

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Posting to X, one user wrote, "How is she going to run behind thieves, if any scuffle happens what if something hits the child? Can there be the same maternity leave law for govt & corporates?"

While another user praised Reena, writing, "Motherhood and Duty. Some pictures don't need words to explain. More power to this lady RPF Constable. Salute to her dedication to service."

Here are some other reactions

The Delhi police have reportedly looked into the matter. DCP Railway KPS Malhotra is currently leading the investigation team. "If people don't rush unnecessarily, there won't be a catastrophic effect where everyone rushes. If disciplined behaviour is followed, there is a great chance for such incidents to be averted. Everyone is a capable decision-maker. If you feel that the rush is increasing, halting at that time is better than boarding the train," he told ANI.

Reena's commitment to both her professional role and motherhood has earned a mixed reaction from the public. While some social media users are admiring her composure in a stressful situation, some are criticising her. This became a sombre reminder of the lack of parental support facilities in India's workforce.