Aam Aadmi Party National Convener Arvind Kejriwal has criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party over allegations that a police constable used an AK-47 rifle during a student protest in Bihar. The controversy gained attention after a video, widely circulated on social media, appeared to show a police personnel firing an AK-47 during protests held on July 25.
According to reports, the incident occurred during demonstrations organized by students in Bihar. The protest reportedly focused on issues related to education and recruitment. During the event, clashes were reported between protesters and security personnel, leading to allegations of excessive use of force by the police.
The video of the incident quickly went viral across social media platforms, prompting widespread public discussion and political reactions. Following the circulation of the footage, the concerned police constable was suspended on Monday pending an official departmental inquiry into the incident.
Reacting to the developments, Arvind Kejriwal questioned the use of such a weapon during the handling of a student protest. In a statement shared on social media, he asked whether students protesting for their demands should be treated like terrorists. He also referred to Bihar's historical role in democratic movements and recalled the slogan "Vacate the throne," which became associated with the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan during the 1970s.
Kejriwal alleged that democratic protests should be handled with restraint and emphasized that students have the right to raise their concerns through peaceful means. He urged the authorities to ensure accountability and transparency in investigating the incident.
The controversy has drawn reactions from opposition leaders and civil society groups, with many calling for a detailed inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the alleged firing. Several political leaders have demanded that the state government clarify whether standard operating procedures were followed by law enforcement personnel during the protest.
As of now, Bihar Police has suspended the constable whose actions are under scrutiny. Authorities have indicated that an investigation is underway to determine the facts surrounding the incident, including the circumstances in which the weapon was allegedly discharged. No final conclusions have been announced by the investigating authorities.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has not issued a detailed official response specifically addressing Kejriwal's remarks at the time of publication. Meanwhile, the incident continues to generate debate over policing practices during public demonstrations and the balance between maintaining law and order and protecting the democratic right to peaceful protest.
The outcome of the departmental inquiry and any further official investigation is expected to provide greater clarity on the events that unfolded during the Bihar student protest. Until then, the matter remains under public and political scrutiny