In a disturbing example of the lengths to which social media fame can push teenagers, three minors from Odisha’s Boudh district have been detained for pulling off a shockingly dangerous stunt near railway tracks. The incident happened near Talupali, close to Purunapani station, where one of the boys lay flat between the rails while a speeding train thundered over him. The entire episode was recorded by one of his friends, while another directed the act from behind the scenes. After the train passed and the boy emerged unharmed, the group erupted in cheers, filming his dramatic rise from the tracks and taking victory photos—clearly thrilled by the close brush with death. The footage, later uploaded online, quickly caught attention and raised serious concerns. Authorities confirmed that while no one was injured, the stunt could have ended in tragedy. Watch the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jist (@jist.news) "This is an extremely dangerous act that could have resulted in fatality,” a Railway Protection Force (RPF) inspector said, according to Times of India report. “After getting the video, we immediately launched an investigation, visited the village, and spoke to the minors and their families. An awareness drive is also underway to educate the public about the life-threatening consequences of such behavior.” The inspector added that the two boys directly involved in the stunt may be presented before the Juvenile Justice Board. A third minor seen standing near the tracks during the video, though not part of the stunt, was also identified but will not face charges. According to NDTV, the boy who lay on the tracks admitted that it wasn’t his idea. “My friends came up with it,” he said. “I lay down on the tracks. When the train passed by, my heart was racing. I did not expect to survive.” Local police and railway officials stressed that stunts like these not only break railway safety laws but also set a dangerous precedent for others. Parents have been urged to keep a closer eye on their children’s online activities. Social media reactions to the viral video ranged from shock to sarcasm. “My heart was pounding if the kid is going to move,” one viewer wrote. Another remarked, “That's why education is important.” A third user joked, “Why men die earlier than women”. Just weeks before the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged off two new trains connecting Boudh and Purunakatak, following the long-awaited completion of a crucial section on the Khurda Road-Balangir line.
