A Bihar Police constable has been suspended after a video showing him firing an AK-47 rifle during violent protests linked to the alleged NEET paper leak controversy went viral on social media. The incident occurred during the Bihar Bandh in Siwan district on Saturday, prompting immediate disciplinary action from the Bihar Police Headquarters and triggering widespread public and political reactions.
The suspended constable has been identified as Abhishek Patel, who was posted with the District Intelligence Unit (DIU) and was attached to a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Police officials confirmed that he has been suspended with immediate effect and that a departmental inquiry has been initiated to determine the circumstances under which the rifle was used during the protest. The administration has stated that the constable had not been authorised to open fire.
Violence Erupts During Bihar Bandh
The protest was organised over the alleged NEET paper leak and drew a large number of students and demonstrators to Gandhi Maidan in Siwan. As the gathering progressed, clashes broke out between protesters and police personnel after tensions escalated.
According to officials, protesters allegedly damaged barricades, pelted stones and disrupted traffic in several parts of the city, including the Gandhi Maidan and JP Chowk areas. Police responded with crowd-control measures, including a lathi-charge and the use of tear gas shells, in an effort to disperse the gathering and restore order.
Viral Video Triggers Immediate Action
The controversy intensified after a video circulated widely on social media appearing to show the constable firing an AK-47 into the air during the unrest. Following the video's circulation, senior police officials reviewed the incident and ordered immediate disciplinary action.
Siwan Superintendent of Police Puran Kumar Jha confirmed that Abhishek Patel had been suspended and that departmental proceedings had begun. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the firing and whether established operational protocols were violated.
Senior Police Officials Injured
The violence also resulted in injuries to several police personnel deployed at the protest site. Superintendent of Police Puran Kumar Jha sustained injuries during the clashes, while additional police officers were hurt as protesters and security forces confronted each other.
Journalists covering the demonstrations also reported injuries amid the stone-pelting and crowd unrest. Emergency medical teams provided treatment to the injured, while police secured the affected areas to prevent further escalation.
Investigation Underway
Police headquarters has directed a detailed departmental inquiry into the firing incident. Investigators will examine available video footage, eyewitness accounts and operational records to determine why the weapon was discharged during the protest.
Officials have emphasised that the investigation will establish whether the use of force complied with police procedures and whether additional disciplinary or legal action is required.
Protests Linked to NEET Controversy
The Siwan incident took place amid continuing demonstrations in Bihar over the alleged NEET paper leak. Student organisations and opposition groups have been demanding accountability and action regarding the examination controversy, leading to protests in multiple districts across the state.
Authorities have appealed for peaceful demonstrations while warning that any incidents of violence or damage to public property will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Police presence has been increased in sensitive areas to maintain public order.
Focus on Accountability
The suspension of the constable has become one of the most discussed developments arising from the Bihar Bandh. While the departmental inquiry proceeds, officials say the priority remains establishing the complete sequence of events and ensuring accountability for any violations of police procedure.
The incident has once again brought attention to crowd-control practices during large public demonstrations and the importance of maintaining proportional use of force while safeguarding public safety. Authorities are expected to take further action once the inquiry is completed and all available evidence has been examined.