Bhojpur: 'Sarv Samaj Mahapanchayat' Held in Bilauti Over Bharat Bhushan Tiwari Encounter Case, Massive Crowd Demands Justice
Ara/Shahpur: A massive 'Sarv Samaj Mahapanchayat' (Grand Assembly) was organized on Wednesday in Bilauti village, under the Shahpur police station area of Bhojpur district. This assembly was called to demand justice following the death of BJP worker Bharat Bhushan Tiwari in an alleged fake encounter. Thousands of local residents, social activists, and supporters of Bharat Tiwari gathered near the Kundeshwar Mahadev Temple, turning the entire area into a high-security zone.
Echoes of Justice and Pressure on Administration
Bharat Bhushan Tiwari's family members and supporters allege that his death was not a result of police action, but a pre-planned murder. Speakers at the Mahapanchayat unanimously stated that shooting Tiwari after he had surrendered by throwing his weapon was completely inhumane and illegal. Demands were raised from the stage for the immediate arrest of all police personnel involved in the encounter and for an impartial investigation into the matter.
Administrative and Political Ripples
In view of the gravity of the matter, the state government and police headquarters had already taken several major administrative steps before the organization of the Mahapanchayat:
Action against SDPO: The then SDPO of Jagdishpur, Rajesh Verma, was removed from his post and attached to the police headquarters.
FIR Registered: Following a complaint from the family, a murder case was registered against the then SDPO, the then Station House Officer (SHO) of Shahpur, and other police personnel involved in the encounter.
Judicial Inquiry: Given the growing public outrage, the Bihar government has ordered a high-level judicial inquiry into the entire case, which will be conducted under the supervision of a retired High Court judge.
Support from Various Sections
The Mahapanchayat was attended not only by local villagers but also by representatives of various social organizations. Speakers described Bharat Tiwari as a social activist who used to raise his voice before the government and administration regarding issues such as floods, erosion, and displacement. He was remembered as a 'young revolutionary' who fought against the system. This issue has sparked a political debate not only in Bihar but also at the national level, with several leaders from both the opposition and the ruling party questioning the style of police functioning.
The Mahapanchayat held in Bilauti village is a clear indication that the public is now in a mood to hold the police and administration accountable. Although the government has assured a judicial inquiry, the villagers have stated that their struggle will continue until the culprits are punished. The administration is currently keeping a close watch on the situation and is taking precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incident.
