Patna: A police personnel in Bihar‘s Siwan district has been suspended after allegedly firing an AK-47 rifle during violence that erupted amid the Bihar bandh called to protest the alleged NEET paper leak.
The firing reportedly took place on July 25, during clashes between protesters and police, leaving at least three protesters injured.
Protest turns violent
According to reports, police opened fire after tensions escalated during the bandh in Siwan. It is alleged that around 10 rounds were fired during the incident, resulting in bullet injuries to three protesters.
The bandh was organised to protest the alleged irregularities surrounding the NEET examination and the paper leak controversy.
Policeman suspended
Following the incident, the police personnel involved in the firing was placed under suspension. Authorities have initiated an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the use of firearms during the protest.
The suspension comes amid growing criticism over the handling of the demonstrations.
Nearly 200 protesters detained
Reports indicate that nearly 200 students and protesters were detained in connection with demonstrations held on July 22 and July 25.
Advocate Akanksha Shahi, who is providing legal assistance to several detainees, said 58 people were remanded to judicial custody on July 25, while around 87 more were expected to be sent to judicial custody. She also claimed that several of those detained were minors.
Investigation continues
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the violence and the police response during the bandh. Further details are expected as the inquiry progresses.