JHANSI, June 27 -- Days after a passenger travelling on the New Delhi-Bhopal Vande Bharat train was thrashed by a dozen people, allegedly at the behest of BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha, for refusing to switch seats, the legislator sought to clarify that he was not directly involved in instigating the attack. "It was an unfortunate incident, but I am not directly involved in the attack," Parichha said at a press conference here. Referring to the CCTV footage of the journey, Parichha said: "I was with my family and had requested the passenger to exchange the seat, which he declined. I went to order some food for my family, for which I made a call. Suddenly, the same person approached me and tried to pick up a quarrel. He was joined by his colleague travelling with him. Both tried to instigate me, but I kept calm. When my gunner tried to intervene, the duo threatened him also." Parichha said he lodged an online complaint and asked for further security, fearing a backlash. When asked whether the attackers were his men, Parichha said his security guard had called his people as they feared a verbal or physical attack. "I had least idea how they suddenly got into the coach and started thrashing the man. By the time I tried to stop it, it was all over," he added. The incident unfolded on June 19 evening in coach E2 of the train when it reached Jhansi. A passenger (name withheld), occupying berth no. 49, was allegedly pressured by Parichha, who was travelling with his wife, son, and a security guard, to swap berth no. 8, allotted to the MLA, which led to an argument. "I have asked the GRP to take legal action against those involved in the attack. I even called the person on the phone and had a talk with him while resolving the issue," said Parichha. The incident prompted the BJP party office to issue a notice to Parichha, seeking an explanation within seven days for conduct deemed "indiscipline" that tarnished the image of the party....