Madhubani : A 50-year-old villager was killed and three others injured after an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) of Bihar Police allegedly opened fire on residents in Balirajgarh village under Babubarhi police station limits in Madhubani district late on Monday night.
The incident reportedly occurred around 1 am on November 3, when villagers confronted ASI Chandra Mohan Singh over his alleged frequent visits to a house in the village. Residents reportedly suspected that he was involved in a relationship with a woman associated with the household.
According to police accounts reported on Tuesday, villagers surrounded the officer inside the house. He allegedly fired several rounds from his service pistol before fleeing the scene.
The deceased was identified as Ashok Yadav, 50, who died during treatment. The three injured villagers were identified as Dhanik Lal Yadav, Phulo Devi and Vijendra Yadav.
The accused officer has been suspended, and a murder case is being pursued against him. Madhubani SSP Yogendra Kumar announced a Rs 25,000 reward for information leading to the officer’s arrest.
Villagers Confront ASI Over Alleged Relationship
According to preliminary police accounts, Singh was deployed at a police picket in Balirajgarh and had reportedly been visiting a house in the village frequently.
Residents allegedly suspected that he had a relationship with a woman connected to the household. His presence at the house late on Monday night reportedly prompted villagers to gather and confront him.
Local accounts cited in reports said a neighbouring woman noticed the officer’s presence and raised an alarm. The door was reportedly secured from outside, after which more villagers assembled at the house.
The circumstances surrounding the officer’s presence and the confrontation are being investigated. The allegations concerning the relationship have not been independently established.
One Villager Dies After Alleged Firing
As the confrontation escalated, the ASI allegedly opened fire at villagers gathered outside the house.
According to reports quoting police officials, four people sustained gunshot injuries. Ashok Yadav later died during treatment, while the other three were taken to hospital for further medical care.
A Dial 112 police response team reached the village after receiving information about the incident and helped transport the injured for treatment.
Senior police officials subsequently visited the hospital and the scene of the shooting. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the firing and questioning people who were present.
ASI Suspended As Police Search For Him
Madhubani SSP Yogendra Kumar visited the injured and inspected the scene following the incident.
Police have launched a search for Singh, who remains absconding. The SSP announced a reward of Rs 25,000 from his personal funds for information that helps locate the accused officer.
The suspension and search operation follow allegations that the officer used his service weapon during the confrontation. Police are investigating the case and taking steps to secure his arrest.
The SSP also appealed to residents not to spread rumours or take the law into their own hands. Authorities have urged people to maintain peace while the investigation continues.
Road Blockade Reported Following The Shooting
The firing triggered anger among residents, and a road blockade was reported following the incident.
The death and injuries have heightened tension in the village, prompting police officials to monitor the situation and appeal for calm.
Investigators are seeking to establish the sequence of events, including what led to the confrontation and the circumstances in which the shots were fired.
Earlier Departmental Action Involving The ASI
Reports have also linked Singh to an earlier incident during his previous posting with a Dial 112 team at Madhwapur police station.
On July 12, 2025, a police vehicle reportedly collided with a motorcycle during a pursuit involving suspected liquor smugglers, resulting in the death of a young man. The then Madhubani SP, Yogendra Kumar, ordered the suspension of Singh and the vehicle’s driver, Chandradeep Shastri, and directed departmental proceedings.
The earlier incident is separate from the current case. The latest allegations will be examined through the ongoing police investigation.
Investigation Continues
The immediate priorities for the police are to locate the absconding officer, establish the circumstances of the shooting and complete the investigation into the death and injuries.
The case has raised serious concerns about the alleged use of a police-issued weapon against civilians. Further details about the incident and the evidence collected are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
