A collective of 75 distinguished former civil servants has raised serious concerns about police conduct during the 2020 Bihar assembly elections, demanding immediate action against officers who allegedly failed to protect a former IRS officer and his wife from a violent mob attack.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
During the heated third phase of Bihar's 2020 assembly elections, former IRS officer Akhilesh Kumar and his wife found themselves at the center of a terrifying ordeal. While performing their democratic duty at a polling booth in Mufassil police station area, they were allegedly assaulted by a mob that included local musclemen and political workers.
Police Inaction Under Scanner
What makes this case particularly alarming, according to the retired bureaucrats, is the apparent inaction by local police authorities. Despite the serious nature of the incident and the victims' status as former government officials, no substantial action was taken against the perpetrators.
The former civil servants' forum has highlighted several concerning aspects:
- The attack occurred in broad daylight at a polling station
- The victims included a woman and a former government officer
- Local police showed reluctance to register proper complaints
- No significant arrests have been made despite clear evidence
Demand for Accountability
In their strongly worded representation, the 75 retired officials have called for:
- Immediate suspension of the concerned police officers
- Thorough investigation by independent authorities
- Appropriate action against all identified perpetrators
- Measures to ensure such incidents don't recur during elections
Broader Implications for Democracy
This case represents more than just an isolated incident of election violence. It raises fundamental questions about the safety of voters, the independence of election machinery, and the ability of common citizens to exercise their franchise without fear.
The involvement of former civil servants, who have spent their careers upholding administrative integrity, adds significant weight to the demand for police accountability and electoral reforms in Bihar.
