Ara/Patna: Tension remained high in Bihar’s Bhojpur district on Thursday after the death of a young man injured in a police encounter triggered protests, allegations of police misconduct and disciplinary action against officers involved in the operation.
Following a review of the incident, Bhojpur Superintendent of Police Raj suspended a Sub-Inspector, an Assistant Sub-Inspector and several constables who were on duty during the encounter.
In a separate action, Shahabad Range DIG Dr Satyaprakash suspended Shahpur Station House Officer (SHO) Rajesh Kumar Malakar with immediate effect, citing negligence and serious lapses in duty. Officials said the decision was taken on the recommendation of the Bhojpur SP.
Family Alleges Police Ignored Mental Health Concerns
The deceased, Bharat Bhushan Tiwari, died while undergoing treatment at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) after being injured in the encounter.
His father, Kashinath Tiwari, alleged that he had informed police that his son was suffering from mental health issues and had sought their help before the incident.
“I had gone to the police station and informed them that my son was mentally unstable and requested that he be brought under control. Nobody listened to me,” he said.
Kashinath Tiwari further alleged that police initially informed the family that Bharat had been shot in the leg and was alive.
“He had done nothing wrong. He was mentally unstable. Such a large police force could not capture him alive,” he said.
The deceased’s mother, Asha Devi, also accused police of using excessive force and claimed her son was shot after surrendering.
“My son had a clean record. He only had a quick temper,” she said.
Highway Blocked As Villagers Protest
The death sparked widespread anger in Bilauti village, where residents and family members staged protests by placing the body on the road and blocking the Ara-Buxar four-lane highway.
The blockade disrupted traffic and drew a large crowd of protesters demanding an impartial investigation into the incident.
Police later resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse demonstrators and restore movement on the highway. The action further intensified tensions in the area, according to local residents.
Administrative and police officials remained deployed at the site in an effort to calm the situation.
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Encounter Under Scrutiny
The encounter has attracted public attention after questions were raised about the circumstances leading to the shooting.
According to police, officers had gone to investigate after a video allegedly showing Bharat Bhushan Tiwari brandishing a weapon went viral on social media.
Police said a team led by the Shahpur SHO visited his residence in connection with the video.
During the operation, Bharat allegedly pointed a pistol at police personnel and later opened fire, prompting officers to retaliate. He sustained injuries during the exchange and was subsequently taken for medical treatment.
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However, family members and villagers have disputed aspects of the police account, alleging that Bharat had surrendered before he was shot.
The incident has intensified calls for an independent inquiry into the encounter, with local residents demanding accountability and transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding the young man’s death.
Officials have indicated that further departmental and legal proceedings are underway.
