A Bihar Police constable has been suspended after a video purportedly showing him firing an AK-47 rifle during student protests in Siwan district went viral on social media. The incident occurred during the statewide ‘Bihar Bandh’ held on July 25, prompting the Bihar Police Headquarters to order a departmental inquiry.
The protests witnessed large gatherings of students across several districts, with clashes reported between demonstrators and police personnel at multiple locations.
According to official information, senior police authorities took immediate cognisance of the viral footage and suspended the constable pending an investigation. Officials said the inquiry will determine whether the use of the firearm complied with established police procedures and whether any additional disciplinary or legal action is required.
Three injured protesters undergoing treatment
Three protesters sustained injuries during the unrest and are receiving treatment at Jayprabha Medanta Hospital in Patna. Hospital authorities said their condition is stable.
Among those injured is 15-year-old Md Arif, whose family said he was returning home after closing the shop where he works when he was struck by a bullet during the violence. Doctors successfully removed the bullet from his neck, and he is currently recovering.
Opposition demands accountability
Leader of Opposition in Bihar Tejashwi Yadav shared the viral video on social media and demanded strict action against those responsible for the firing.
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also reacted to the incident, alleging a pattern in the handling of student protests and referring to recent allegations of the use of force against protesters in other parts of the country.
Police assure action after inquiry
Police officials reiterated that maintaining law and order remains their primary responsibility but stressed that any deviation from prescribed protocols is treated seriously.
Authorities confirmed that a detailed departmental inquiry has been initiated to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged firing. The investigation will determine whether the firearm was used in accordance with police guidelines and whether further action is warranted.
The protests were part of the statewide Bihar Bandh, during which students marched towards Gandhi Maidan while raising slogans. Tensions escalated following confrontations between protesters and security personnel, leading t
