Patna, June 18 (IANS) A dramatic police operation in Bilaunti village under the Shahpur police station limits in Bihar’s Bhojpur district has triggered departmental action and sparked widespread debate over police functioning.

Following the circulation of a viral video showing a young man allegedly pointing a pistol at police personnel during a raid, senior police authorities have taken disciplinary measures against several officers.

Shahabad Range DIG Dr Satyaprakash ordered the immediate suspension of Shahpur Station House Officer (SHO) Rajesh Kumar Malakar after an inquiry reportedly found serious lapses in duty.

The action was taken on the recommendation of Bhojpur Superintendent of Police Raj.

In addition to the SHO, a Sub-Inspector and a constable who were part of the police team present during the operation have also been suspended.

The disciplinary action has generated considerable discussion within police circles.

According to an official, the police team had reached Bilaunti village following information that an individual, Bharat Bhushan Tiwari, was allegedly carrying and displaying illegal firearms.

However, during the operation, the situation escalated dramatically.

A video that later went viral on social media allegedly showed the accused openly brandishing a pistol and threatening police personnel.

The footage drew significant public attention and raised questions about the police team’s response and handling of the situation.

Following the video’s circulation, senior police officials reviewed the incident.

The departmental inquiry reportedly concluded that the officers on the spot failed to demonstrate the level of alertness, preparedness, and prompt action expected in such a high-risk situation.

Based on these findings, disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the personnel concerned.

The controversy comes in the backdrop of a subsequent police encounter involving Bharat Bhushan Tiwari.

According to police accounts, the confrontation later escalated into an exchange of fire, during which Tiwari sustained a gunshot injury.

He was admitted to the hospital but later died during treatment in PMCH.

While the encounter itself remains a significant aspect of the case, current public and departmental discussions are largely centred on the viral video and the questions it has raised about operational conduct, preparedness, and accountability within the police force.

–IANS

ajk/dpb