SIWAN / PATNA: Taking swift action after a video went viral on social media, the Bihar Police Headquarters suspended police constable Abhishek Patel for firing an AK-47 rifle during the recent Bihar bandh in Siwan. Patel, who was deployed with the Special Investigation Team (SIT), has also been placed under a departmental inquiry.
The incident occurred on July 25 during the Bihar bandh, when protests in Siwan turned aggressive. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and law enforcement, leading to stone-pelting and a lathi charge. Amid the chaos, a video emerged online showing the constable firing the assault rifle.
Following the viral video, senior police officials launched a preliminary investigation and immediately placed the constable under suspension. Authorities are currently examining the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether the weapon was fired in accordance with prescribed police protocol.
Crackdown on Violent Protests Across Districts
In response to the widespread violence, vandalism, and blockades during the bandh, police across Bihar have intensified enforcement actions. So far, 21 FIRs have been registered in several districts, leading to the arrest of nearly 450 individuals.
According to police officials, those arrested face serious charges, including launching life-threatening attacks on police personnel, damaging public property, blocking roads, and assaulting civilians.
Highest Arrests Reported in Patna
Patna recorded the highest number of arrests, with 139 individuals taken into custody across two registered cases. The initial group of detainees included 30 female students and around 45 minors. However, following preliminary questioning, police released both the female students and the minors.
Mass arrests were also reported in other parts of the state:
- Saran: 58 arrests across four cases
- Siwan: 25 arrests across three cases
- Kishanganj: 25 arrests in one case
- Muzaffarpur: 15 arrests across two cases
- Sitamarhi: 13 arrests across four cases
Video Evidence Under Scrutiny
Senior officers stated that police teams are thoroughly scanning video footage, social media posts, and witness accounts from the protest sites to identify perpetrators. Officials emphasized that no individual involved in the violence will be spared.
The police administration noted that the suspension of the constable sends a clear message that strict action will be taken against any officer found violating norms while managing law and order. Further investigations and actions remain ongoing.
