In a significant development following violent protests in Khagaria, Bihar, the police have taken stern action. Fourteen individuals have been arrested, and a named First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against 82 others. The charges stem from acts of vandalism and unlawful entry into the district collectorate's meeting hall on Thursday.
Protest Turns Violent Over Minor's Death
The unrest erupted during a demonstration concerning the alleged rape and murder of a four-year-old girl in a village on Tuesday night. Angered by the incident, a large mob forcefully entered the collectorate office, disrupting its normal functioning. The protestors caused significant damage within the premises, with some even reportedly taking selfies while sitting on the official chair in the meeting hall.
Police Response and Internal Action
Khagaria Superintendent of Police Rakesh Kumar provided details of the police administration's response. In a move highlighting accountability lapses, eight police personnel have been suspended for dereliction of duty and failing to control the volatile situation. Additionally, four Station House Officers (SHOs) of various police stations have been served show-cause notices, demanding an explanation for their actions.
SP Kumar stated that all the accused miscreants were identified through a thorough review of CCTV footage and video reels circulating on social media. This digital evidence played a crucial role in pinpointing those involved in the ruckus.
Legal Charges and SIT Formation
The police have invoked serious charges against the accused. They have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984. To ensure a comprehensive probe into the entire sequence of events, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted.
This SIT will be headed by Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Mukul Ranjan. The team's mandate is to conduct a detailed investigation into the vandalism, the circumstances leading to it, and the alleged crime that triggered the public outcry.
