Patna: A police officer has been suspended after a video surfaced purportedly showing him firing an AK-47 during student protests in Siwan district on July 25.
The action was taken following directions from Bihar Police Headquarters. Police officials said the incident would be investigated and further action would depend on the findings of the inquiry.
Video Triggers Police Action
Students staged protests across several districts of Bihar during the July 25 shutdown, with clashes reported between protesters and police in some areas.
In Siwan, police used lathi-charge measures as tensions escalated. A video from the protest later circulated on social media, purportedly showing a police officer firing an AK-47 towards the protesters.
Following the circulation of the footage, Police Headquarters took note of the incident and ordered action against the officer.
Officials said maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the police and that disciplinary action would be taken if rules or procedures were violated.
Investigation Underway
Police officials are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the firing, including the actions of the suspended officer and the events that led to the use of the firearm.
Further action will be determined after the investigation report is submitted, officials said.
Three Injured Protesters Stable
Meanwhile, three protesters injured during the firing in Siwan are undergoing treatment at Jayprabha Medanta Hospital in Patna. Their condition has been reported as stable.
Among those injured is 15-year-old Md Arif, who works at a shop. According to his family, he was returning home after closing the shop during the shutdown when a bullet struck his neck amid the firing.
Doctors subsequently removed the bullet surgically. His condition is currently stable, according to the information provided by his family.
