New Delhi: A political controversy erupted on Tuesday after AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal criticised the BJP over allegations that an AK-47 rifle was used during a student protest in Bihar’s Siwan district, questioning the manner in which authorities handled the demonstration.
Kejriwal said students participating in protests should not be treated like criminals or terrorists, reacting to a viral video that allegedly showed a police constable carrying and using an AK-47 rifle during a protest against examination-related irregularities.
The incident reportedly took place on July 25 in Siwan, where students had gathered to raise concerns over alleged issues linked to examinations. The video showing a police personnel with an assault rifle circulated widely on social media, triggering criticism from opposition leaders and public debate over the response of law enforcement agencies.
Taking to social media platform X, Kejriwal questioned the actions of the authorities and targeted the BJP over the incident. He said the use of such force against students raised serious concerns and urged that young protesters should not be dealt with through intimidation.
Recalling Bihar’s political history, the AAP leader referred to the movement led by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan and said that the state has witnessed major student-led democratic movements in the past. He appealed to the government to avoid confrontation with students and respect their right to raise concerns.
The controversy intensified after Siwan police took action against the constable seen in the viral footage. Siwan Superintendent of Police Puran Kumar Jha said the personnel, who was attached to the District Intelligence Unit, had been suspended after the video came to the notice of authorities.
Police officials also confirmed that departmental proceedings have been initiated against the constable to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine further action.
The issue has added to political tensions in Bihar, with opposition parties questioning the handling of student demonstrations and demanding accountability from the administration. The ruling party, however, has maintained that appropriate action was taken against the concerned police personnel once the matter was brought to attention.
Student protests over examination irregularities have become a significant issue in several states, with young demonstrators frequently demanding transparency, fair evaluation processes and accountability from examination authorities.
The Siwan incident is now under scrutiny as authorities investigate the conduct of the police personnel involved, while political parties continue to debate the broader concerns surrounding student protests and law enforcement response.