AK-47 Used in Bihar Student Protest, Government Admits Before SC

Patna: The state government has filed its reply in the Supreme Court on the controversy over police action during the student movement in Bihar. The government has denied allegations of police brutality and excessive use of force. However, the government also did not accept the incident of a policeman firing in the air with an AK-47 during the demonstration in Siwan. The affidavit states that the constable fired four rounds in the air for his own safety after being surrounded by the crowd. After this incident, he was suspended and a departmental inquiry was started.

Why was action taken against the soldier who fired with AK-47?

The government told the court that AK-47 is not a weapon to be used in general law and order duties. It is used during special operations. Amidst the demonstration, the constable used it and fired four bullets in the air. According to the government, no protestor was injured in this firing. Despite this, action has been taken against the constable considering the use of weapon against the rules.

Did the soldier open fire on the orders of the officers?

According to the government's reply, the constable was not given any order to open fire. He was trapped among the crowd and to save himself he fired in the air. The matter became more serious after the video of the incident surfaced. After this the police department also admitted that AK-47 should not have been used in such a situation. Departmental investigation is ongoing in the matter.

Why was there aerial firing at Hathi Chowk also?

The government has also mentioned the Hathi Chowk incident in the affidavit. When the situation worsened here, an ASI fired twice in the air with a 9 mm pistol. During this period, information has been given that three protesters were injured. The government has clarified that these injuries have no connection with the AK-47 firing in Siwan. Scientific and ballistic investigation reports in this regard are awaited.

When did a peaceful protest turn violent?

The state government says that the student demonstration started peacefully. Later some unruly elements joined the crowd and the situation worsened. After this stone pelting and vandalism started. According to the police, force had to be used to control the crowd and prevent damage to government property. The government has cited this incident in the court as the reason for the police action.

How many policemen were injured in the violence?

In the affidavit, the government said that about 157 policemen were injured during the demonstration. Seven other government employees were also injured. The government says that after the increase in violence, the police were faced with the challenge of maintaining law and order. Meanwhile, the police took action to control the protesters. History

Cases registered against how many people?

According to the government, 69 FIRs were registered in cases related to the protests between July 22 and 25. About 500 people were arrested. Later, under the direction of the Supreme Court, 222 student protesters with no criminal history were released on bail. Whereas 75 teenagers were released under the process of Juvenile Justice Board.

What will be kept an eye on in the Supreme Court now?

Hearing is going on in the Supreme Court on the petitions filed regarding police action during the student demonstration. The protesters have accused the police of using excessive force, while the state government has rejected these allegations. However, the government itself has informed the court about the action taken against the soldier who fired with AK-47. Now during the hearing, the next stand of the court regarding the matters related to police action, injured and demonstration is being considered important.