Rounds fired from AK-47 rifle during Siwan protest, but none injured: Bihar govt tells SC
Bihar government denies allegations of excessive force, tells SC that constable fired four rounds in air after being trapped in a crowd
The Bihar government has informed the Supreme Court that a police personnel fired four rounds into the air from an AK-47 rifle during the students’ protest in Siwan, and none were injured in the firing.
The response came as a counter affidavit to PILs alleging police brutality against protesters, as the Bihar government denied the use of “excessive force” on protesters.
‘AK47 fired, no injuries’
As for the reason behind the firing of the AK47, the Bihar government said that the constable fired four rounds as he got trapped in the crowd near JP Chowk in Siwan, reported Live Law.
Elaborating further, the affidavit mentioned another incident which took place near Hathi Chowk where an ASI fired two rounds from his 9 mm pistol to disperse the crowd, which led to three protesters suffering “minor firearm injuries.”
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The affidavit clarified that the firearm injuries received by the three protesters did not result from an AK47 rifle, adding that they were not present in the area where the weapon was used. Despite this, stated the Bihar government, ballistic tests are being conducted to determine the type of weapon, distance of fire and angle of fire.
According to the affidavit, AK-47 is a platoon-level weapon for special operations, not for law and order situations. The State DGP has issued instructions on its use.
Constable suspended
The state government alleged protestors damaged public property and attacked police officials. In Siwan, the force was inadequate, prompting more personnel. Near JP Chowk, a constable got trapped in the crowd and fired 4 rounds from his AK47 in the air. No one was injured from the bullets of the AK-47, it said. The constable was suspended, and departmental proceedings began, stated the affidavit.
Also Read: Bihar cop seen with AK-47 in Siwan protest suspended; probe launched
It further stated that as per the top court’s instructions, the Additional DGP was instructed to preserve video records. Protesters’ personal and digital data were directed not to be disclosed publicly or on social media “for the time being”.
"The Bihar Police is not taking any coercive measures against the protesting students who have no criminal antecedents," stated the affidavit.
FIRs, arrests and injuries
It further stated that between July 22 and July 25, 69 FIRs were registered and 500 arrests made. As per the court’s directions, 222 student protestors without criminal antecedents were released on bail, while 75 delinquent children were released by the Juvenile Justice Board.
Violence occurred at Gandhi Maidan, Jehanabad, Patna, Chapra, Bhagalpur, Sitamarhi, Aurangabad, Katihar, Kishanganj and Siwan, with 157 police personnel and 7 public servants injured. Tear gas and water cannons injured protestors, stated the affidavit.