RPF Constable Dies in Accidental Misfire at Dhone Railway Station

A tragic accident at Dhone Railway Station in Andhra Pradesh on January 25, 2026 ended the life of RPF constable P. Peddayya (50) when his service revolver misfired as he was depositing the weapon after completing escort duty early on Sunday. The bullet struck him in the face , causing instant death around 3:30 a.m. , triggering shock across the locality.

In response, the government provided ₹1 lakh ex gratia assistance to Peddayya’s family as immediate financial support following the fatal gun accident. Local railway police registered a case under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Section 194 and began an investigation to determine whether proper safety protocols were followed or a mechanical fault caused the misfire.

This incident adds to a series of accidental firearm discharges involving security personnel reported in 2025–early 2026 . On June 10, 2025 , a constable’s rifle misfired at the Police Officers’ Mess in Hyderabad’s Masab Tank with no casualties, and on November 24, 2025 , an Armed Reserve constable was injured when his service rifle accidentally discharged at Amberpet Police Lines in Hyderabad. A similar accidental firing injury was also reported at Kathua Railway Station in J&K in early January 2026 .

Experts say such mishaps often stem from procedural lapses , equipment fatigue , or human error during weapon handling and depositing . While the RPF and railways have detailed safety SOPs for firearm management, recurring accidents highlight the need for enhanced training , regular mechanical checks , and strict supervision at weapon deposit points to prevent further avoidable tragedies .