'No orders to open fire': Siwan DM on suspended cop who fired AK-47 during NEET protest
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TOI CITY DESK
The Bihar government has announced the withdrawal of FIRs and the release of individuals detained during protests against the NEET (UG) paper leak. This move follows an incident in Siwan where a constable was suspended for unauthorized use of an AK-47 during the unrest.
Tensions Erupt in Bihar: NEET Protests and Policy Response
The recent demonstrations across Bihar, sparked by allegations of irregularities in the NEET (UG) examination, have culminated in a significant administrative pivot. Following widespread unrest, the Bihar government has officially announced the withdrawal of FIRs filed against protesters arrested during the 'Bihar Bandh.' This decision covers all cases registered up to July 26, signaling a de-escalation of the conflict between the state apparatus and student demonstrators who had previously clashed with law enforcement.
The Siwan Firing Incident
Central to the controversy was an incident in Siwan, where a police constable, Abhishek Kumar, discharged an AK-47 rifle into the air during the student protests. The District Magistrate, Vivek Ranjan Maitrey, and Superintendent of Police, Puran Kumar Jha, confirmed that no orders were issued to open fire, labeling the act unauthorized and inappropriate. Consequently, Constable Kumar has been suspended, and departmental proceedings have been initiated to address this breach of protocol. This specific event highlights the challenges of maintaining order during volatile public demonstrations.
Escalation and Public Order
During the 'Bihar Bandh,' the situation in several parts of the state became increasingly volatile. Reports indicated that protesters damaged police vehicles in Patna, reflecting the intensity of the grievances surrounding the NEET paper leak allegations. The use of an AK-47 by a DIU team member in Siwan further exacerbated tensions, leading to reports of three individuals sustaining bullet injuries at locations adjacent to the protest site. Investigations into these injuries are ongoing, as authorities seek to reconcile the timeline of the firing with the public safety outcomes.
Political Repercussions and Accountability
The firing incident in Siwan drew sharp criticism, including allegations raised in Parliament regarding police excesses. By suspending the constable and initiating departmental action, the Bihar administration has attempted to address concerns regarding police conduct. The move to drop charges against students is viewed by many as a strategic effort to restore calm and address the underlying administrative pressure caused by the national discourse on the NEET examination integrity.
Broader Implications for Student Activism
This series of events underscores the fragile balance between the right to protest and the maintenance of public order. The decision to release detainees and drop cases represents a major policy reversal intended to mitigate further unrest. As the state moves forward, the focus will likely remain on the investigation into the firing incident and the broader inquiry into the NEET paper leak, both of which continue to be subjects of intense public and political scrutiny.
Future Trends and Conclusion
Moving forward, the Bihar government's decision to withdraw cases may serve as a cooling-off mechanism, though the demand for accountability in the NEET issue remains a potent driver for future activism. The scrutiny placed on police conduct in Siwan sets a precedent for how law enforcement agencies are expected to manage future protests. Ultimately, the resolution of these legal cases and the outcome of the ongoing investigations will determine the long-term impact on the state's political climate and its relationship with the student community.