Three minors detained in Odisha for performing dangerous train stunt for social media reel

Three minors detained in Odisha for performing dangerous train stunt for social media reel

In a shocking case of social media-driven recklessness, three minors have been taken into custody in Odisha’s Boudh district after one of them was recorded lying on railway tracks while a fast-moving train sped over him—an attempt to create a viral video.

The incident took place near Dalupali, close to the Purunapani railway station, where rail services were only recently introduced after sustained public demand. In the video, widely circulated on social media, one boy is seen lying on the tracks as a train speeds over him. His two friends are seen directing and recording the stunt. After the train passes without injury, the boys are heard cheering and clapping, and the one who performed the stunt begins posing for photographs.

Local police have taken all three boys into custody and are currently questioning them. Officials have condemned the stunt as a serious breach of railway safety regulations and warned that it sets a hazardous example for other youths. They have urged parents to be vigilant about their children’s online behaviour and social media activity.

Speaking to officials, the boy who performed the stunt admitted that the idea came from his friends. “I lay down on the tracks. When the train passed by, my heart was racing. I did not expect to survive,” he said, acknowledging the life-threatening risk they took to generate online attention.

This incident adds to a growing list of reckless stunts performed for social media validation. In recent years, multiple deaths have been reported from similar acts — including people leaning out of moving trains, climbing on train roofs, or attempting dangerous selfies on railway tracks.

Railway authorities and police have reiterated that such actions not only endanger the individuals involved but also put train drivers and railway operations at risk. Warnings have been issued across districts, with officials stressing that those found endangering public safety for internet clout will face strict action under the law.