Bihar Government Announces Judicial Inquiry into Bhojpur Police Encounter
The Bihar Government on Saturday announced a judicial inquiry into a recent police encounter in Bhojpur district that resulted in the death of a man. The decision was made to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident.
Bharat Bhushan Tiwari, a resident of Bilauti village in the Shahpur police station area, was killed in an encounter with police on Wednesday. The state government has ordered an independent probe under a retired High Court judge, as announced by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on social media platform X.
“It has been decided to conduct an independent judicial inquiry into the Wednesday encounter in Bilauti village under the aegis of a retired High Court judge,” Choudhary stated. He emphasized that the inquiry would thoroughly examine all aspects of the incident with complete impartiality and transparency.
In response to the encounter, the Bihar Police suspended four policemen, including a Station House Officer (SHO). This action followed the circulation of a purported video showing an armed suspect pointing a pistol at security personnel on Tuesday, with allegations that officers failed to respond promptly.
According to police, the encounter occurred when Tiwari allegedly fired at officers during a police operation in Bilauti village. Police claimed they opened fire in “self-defence” and to ensure public safety. Tiwari sustained a bullet injury to his leg and died while being transported to Patna Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
The initial police statement described Tiwari as reportedly “mentally unsound.” However, family members and others have described him as a public activist who consistently raised local issues before the administration. A purported video circulating on social media shows Tiwari throwing away his weapon before the encounter, but PTI could not independently verify the video’s authenticity.
Background of the Incident
The encounter took place in Bilauti village under the Shahpur police station area of Bhojpur district. The police operation was initiated based on specific inputs, leading to the confrontation with Tiwari. The suspension of four policemen indicates the seriousness with which the state government is treating the matter.
The judicial inquiry aims to address concerns about police accountability and ensure justice for Tiwari. The state government has reiterated its commitment to transparency in law enforcement actions.
