Politics Erupts Over AK-47 Firing by Policeman in Bihar's Siwan; Constable Suspended Amid Sharp Political Reactions

Politics Erupts Over AK-47 Firing by Policeman in Bihar's Siwan; Constable Suspended Amid Sharp Political Reactions

Patna/Siwan: The controversy surrounding a police constable who fired an AK-47 rifle during a student protest in Bihar's Siwan district has intensified beyond administrative action. Although the state government has suspended the constable after a video of the incident went viral on social media, political leaders from across the spectrum have expressed sharply differing views. While the opposition has accused the government of suppressing students, the ruling establishment has maintained that any police personnel found violating official protocols will face strict action.

The incident occurred during a statewide protest and Bihar Bandh organized over the alleged NEET paper leak and in support of student demands. A viral video reportedly shows a police constable firing an AK-47 into the air while advancing toward protesters. Police officials clarified that no protester was injured in the firing, but acknowledged that the use of such a weapon in the situation was inappropriate. Following the incident, the constable was immediately suspended and a departmental inquiry was ordered.

Administration's Response

According to the Siwan district administration and police officials, the constable had not been authorized to open fire during the protest. Preliminary findings suggest that he acted on his own, violating the police's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Officials stated that a detailed investigation is underway and further action will be taken based on the inquiry report.

LJP (Ram Vilas) MP Condemns the Incident

A Member of Parliament from the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) strongly criticized the incident, stating that the use of a military-grade weapon against student protesters cannot be justified under any circumstances. The MP said that even if the demonstration posed a law-and-order challenge, the police had several other crowd-control measures available.

The MP urged the government to conduct an impartial investigation and take strict action against those found responsible. Emphasizing democratic values, the MP added that students have the right to raise their voices and that any police action must remain within constitutional and humanitarian limits.

Former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav Attacks the Government

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav also reacted strongly, criticizing both the Bihar and Central governments. He alleged that instead of listening to students demanding accountability on issues such as the NEET paper leak, the authorities were attempting to suppress dissent through excessive use of force.

According to Akhilesh Yadav, democracy guarantees citizens the right to protest peacefully, and governments should resolve disagreements through dialogue rather than intimidation.

Opposition Targets the Government

Opposition parties have questioned the Bihar government's handling of the situation and the conduct of the police. Several leaders asked why an AK-47 rifle was deployed during a student protest in the first place. They argued that if the constable fired without official orders, it reflects a serious lapse in police discipline and supervision.

The opposition further stated that merely suspending the constable is insufficient. They demanded a judicial or high-level independent inquiry to determine whether senior police officers or administrative officials also bear responsibility for the incident.

Government's Stand

Government officials reiterated that no police personnel are permitted to take the law into their own hands. They emphasized that anyone found violating official procedures will face strict disciplinary action. According to the administration, the primary objective of the police was to maintain law and order, but the improper use of a firearm cannot be defended.

Police officials also clarified that the shots were fired into the air and no injuries were reported. Nevertheless, the government has treated the matter seriously and initiated a departmental investigation.

Student Organizations Express Anger

The incident has triggered widespread outrage among student organizations, many of which have warned of intensified protests if strict action is not taken. Student leaders alleged that instead of addressing their legitimate demands regarding the NEET paper leak, the government is relying on police action to suppress the movement.

Several student groups described the firing as an attempt to intimidate protesters and demanded severe punishment for those responsible.

Debate on Social Media

The viral video of the AK-47 firing has sparked a heated debate on social media. While some users argued that the police were trying to maintain law and order, many criticized the use of such a powerful weapon during a student demonstration. A significant number of commentators expressed concern that military-style firearms should never be used in situations involving civilian protests.

What Happens Next?

The suspended constable remains under departmental investigation, and authorities are expected to decide on further disciplinary action after the inquiry is completed. Meanwhile, the issue has taken on a political dimension and is likely to dominate discussions in both the Bihar Legislative Assembly and Parliament in the coming days.

Conclusion

The Siwan incident has reignited a nationwide debate over police conduct, crowd-control practices, and the acceptable limits of force during democratic protests. Although the Bihar government acted quickly by suspending the constable, the political controversy continues to grow. With opposition parties demanding accountability and student organizations planning further protests, all eyes are now on the outcome of the official inquiry, which will determine whether responsibility lies solely with the suspended constable or extends to higher levels of the administration.