The Bihar Police Headquarters has officially released a comprehensive clarification regarding the recent police firing incident that occurred in the Siwan district, while according to the official statement, the police have taken significant action following the events of July 25, which involved a large-scale protest and subsequent violence. The police headquarters detailed the number of individuals detained and the disciplinary measures taken against the personnel involved in the firing incident to maintain transparency regarding the law and order situation.
Massive Detentions and Legal Proceedings
In the aftermath of the protests and violent incidents across the state, the Bihar Police reported that a total of 694 individuals were taken into custody. The police conducted a thorough verification process for all those detained to ensure that innocent individuals weren't unfairly penalized, while out of the total 694 people, 339 individuals were identified as minors and students. Following the verification of their identities and involvement, these 339 minors and students were released by the authorities. However, the remaining 355 individuals, who were allegedly involved in violent activities, have been processed for legal action and are being produced before the court. This large-scale detention reflects the intensity of the situation that unfolded during the student movement and the subsequent police response.
The Firing Incident at JP Chowk
The clarification specifically addressed the viral video and reports of firing in Siwan. The Bihar Police stated that during the demonstration at JP Chowk on July 25, a constable identified as Abhishek Kumar resorted to firing. It was reported that the constable used an AK-47 rifle to fire 4 rounds of aerial shots in an attempt to control the surging crowd. The police headquarters emphasized that this action wasn't in line with the instructions provided to the force. Consequently, Constable Abhishek Kumar, who was part of the District Intelligence Unit (DIU), has been suspended with immediate effect, while in addition to the suspension, formal departmental proceedings have been initiated against him to investigate the breach of protocol and the unauthorized use of the weapon.
Injuries and Casualties Reported
Regarding the casualties from the firing, the police maintained that no individuals were injured at the immediate site of the firing at JP Chowk. However, the report noted that 3 individuals were later found at different locations with gunshot wounds. These 3 injured persons were provided medical attention, and their condition is currently stated to be out of danger. The Siwan City Police Station has registered separate First Information Reports (FIRs) based on the statements provided by these 3 injured individuals. The police are currently investigating the circumstances under which these injuries occurred and whether they're directly linked to the incident at JP Chowk or other events during the protest.
Impact on Police Personnel and Public Property
The protest resulted in significant injuries to law enforcement officials and damage to government property. According to the Bihar Police, a total of 91 police officers and personnel sustained injuries during the violent clashes. Among the injured are several administrative officers who are reported to be in serious condition. The violence also targeted government infrastructure, leading to the damage of 14 government vehicles. On top of that, 1 vehicle was completely set on fire by the protesters. The police have stated that all actions are being taken strictly in accordance with the law to address the violence and property damage caused during the agitation.
Official Statement from Siwan SP
Puran Kumar Jha, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Siwan, provided further details on the disciplinary actions. He confirmed that the constable from the District Intelligence Unit (DIU) was suspended immediately after the incident came to light through social media and internal reports. SP Jha reiterated that clear instructions had been issued to the police force not to resort to firing during the demonstrations. He stated that the departmental inquiry would look into why the instructions were bypassed by the individual constable. The SP also clarified that while the constable fired aerial shots, the investigation into the 3 injured civilians is being handled separately through the registered FIRs to ensure a fair and legal process for all parties involved.