The Bihar Police informed the Supreme Court that a constable fired an AK-47 into the air during protests in Siwan, though no one was injured by the weapon. The state government denied using disproportionate force against protesters while suspending the officer involved.
The Bihar government submitted a counter-affidavit stating a constable trapped in a crowd fired four rounds from an AK-47 rifle into the air. The filing confirmed no protesters were harmed by those shots. Officials acknowledged using tear gas and water cannons but insisted the response was measured.
Near Hathi Chowk, an Assistant Sub-Inspector fired two rounds from a 9 mm pistol, causing minor injuries to three protesters. The affidavit clarified these injuries were unrelated to the AK-47 discharge, as the injured individuals were not present where the rifle was fired.
Related: Supreme Court freezes Rahul Gandhi assets case proceedings
Ballistics experts are examining evidence to determine the weapon type, distance, and angle of fire in both incidents.
The state described the AK-47 as a platoon-level weapon unsuitable for crowd control. The constable who fired the rifle has been suspended for misconduct, and disciplinary action is underway. Police leadership issued new guidelines on weapon use following the incident. The response acknowledged the rifle caused no harm but admitted its deployment was improper.
The affidavit also alleged protesters damaged property and attacked officers. It claimed criminal elements infiltrated crowds, escalating violence in Chapra, Patna, and Siwan.
In Chapra on July 25, the protest remained peaceful until noon before a mob began vandalism and stone-pelting. Two Block Development Officers were injured—one lost an eye, and another remains critical after being struck in the head. The state reported 157 police personnel and seven public servants were hurt overall.
Related: BCI Withdraws Ban on NALSAR 2026 Batch Enrolment
The affidavit outlined compliance with the court’s orders. Police preserved all video footage and records related to the protests. The state assured protesters’ personal and digital data would not be shared publicly or on social media for now.
No details of student protesters have been released. Bihar Police stated they are not pursuing coercive measures against demonstrators without criminal records. Between July 22 and 25, 69 FIRs were filed across the state, leading to 500 arrests. Of those, 222 students with no prior offenses were granted bail, and 75 minors were released by the Juvenile Justice Board.
The Supreme Court is considering whether to review the allegations. The court has not issued any findings. Proceedings are ongoing.