SIWAN: A police officer in Bihar’s Siwan district has been suspended after a video showing him firing an AK-47 rifle during a student protest went viral on social media. The incident has triggered widespread criticism, with opposition parties, civil rights groups, and legal experts questioning the use of such force against demonstrators. A petition has also been moved before the Supreme Court seeking registration of an FIR against the officer and action against those responsible for the alleged police excesses.
The incident occurred during protests linked to the ongoing agitation by students demanding accountability over examination-related issues and broader concerns regarding employment and education. Demonstrations were held across Bihar, including in Siwan, where tensions escalated between protesters and police.
Video shows officer firing assault rifle
Several videos shared on social media appeared to show a police constable wearing riot gear rushing towards a crowd before firing multiple rounds from an AK-47 rifle into the air. The footage quickly spread online, raising serious concerns about whether the use of an automatic assault weapon was justified during crowd control operations.
Senior police officials later confirmed the authenticity of the video and acknowledged that the officer had used the weapon improperly. Authorities clarified that no protesters were struck by the bullets and no deaths were reported due to the firing.
Officials stated that the constable belonged to an intelligence unit that had been issued the assault rifle because of its specialized duties. However, they admitted that deploying such a weapon against student protesters was unjustified.
Bihar Police suspends constable
Following a preliminary inquiry, Bihar Police suspended the constable pending a detailed investigation. Senior officials said the officer’s actions violated established procedures for handling protests and maintaining public order.
Police authorities maintained that while security personnel were attempting to disperse demonstrators amid escalating violence, the decision to fire the AK-47 could not be defended. Departmental proceedings and additional legal action are expected after the inquiry is completed.
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The suspension is being viewed as an immediate disciplinary measure while investigators examine the sequence of events, including whether standard crowd-control protocols were ignored.
Protest linked to larger student movement
The Siwan incident took place during a statewide protest in Bihar, where students have been demonstrating over examination controversies and youth-related issues. Protesters have accused authorities of failing to address their concerns, leading to repeated demonstrations in several districts.
In some areas, clashes reportedly broke out after protesters blocked roads and allegedly threw stones at police personnel. Law enforcement responded with baton charges, tear gas, and other crowd-control measures before the firing incident attracted national attention.
The broader protests have also drawn attention to issues such as unemployment and recruitment delays, with student organisations demanding greater transparency and accountability from authorities.
Supreme Court petition seeks FIR
The controversy has now reached the Supreme Court through a petition seeking criminal proceedings against the officer seen firing the AK-47. The plea reportedly requests directions for registration of an FIR and an independent investigation into the police response during the protests.
Petitioners have argued that the use of an assault rifle against civilian demonstrators raises serious constitutional and legal concerns. They have also sought accountability for alleged excessive force used during the protests.
The Supreme Court is expected to consider the legal issues raised in accordance with established judicial procedures.
Political reactions intensify
The incident has intensified political debate, with opposition leaders accusing the government of using excessive force against students. They have demanded a transparent investigation and strict punishment for those responsible if wrongdoing is established.
Government officials have defended the police response in maintaining law and order while acknowledging that the individual officer’s conduct is under scrutiny. The suspension has been presented as evidence that disciplinary action has already begun.
Civil rights activists have also expressed concern over the incident, arguing that peaceful protests should not be met with disproportionate force. They have called for clear guidelines governing the use of firearms during public demonstrations.
Investigation continues
Authorities are now reviewing video footage, witness statements, and police records to reconstruct the events that led to the firing. The findings of the departmental inquiry are expected to determine whether additional criminal charges or administrative penalties should follow.
The incident has once again highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining public order and protecting the democratic right to peaceful protest. The outcome of the investigation and any future court proceedings will likely shape discussions on policing standards during mass demonstrations in India.
For now, the suspended constable remains under investigation while the legal challenge before the Supreme Court keeps the issue in the national spotlight.
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