Bihar CM Samrat Chaudhary Faces Backlash Over Activist's Death
Bihar's political landscape is in turmoil as several BJP leaders voice their concerns regarding the troubling death of social activist Bharat Bhushan Tiwari. Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari stated that alternative measures should have been explored to prevent the tragic outcome, suggesting that Tiwari's life could have been spared. National secretary Rituraj Sinha lamented the incident's severity, insisting that law enforcement must not resort to violence, and called for a judicial inquiry — a step the Bihar government has now initiated.
In a video statement, Sinha highlighted the need for a comprehensive investigation, noting that Tiwari had no significant criminal history and appeared to be "mentally unstable." Former Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, who met with Tiwari's family, insisted that accountability must follow if the police are found culpable. He emphasized that Tiwari had surrendered and questioned the necessity of police action, urging Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene on the matter. Choubey expressed his dismay, stating,
“Extremely heartbreaking… I am anguished by this hair-raising incident that brings shame to democracy.”
Following widespread criticism, not only from opposition parties but also from within its ranks, the BJP government has ordered an independent inquiry led by a retired high court judge. A senior BJP official explained the urgency of the situation, revealing that internal dissent had compelled action: “If the party and government’s own people start raising questions about the government’s functioning, it reflects poorly on everyone.”
As the controversy unfolds, the police's account has come under scrutiny due to inconsistencies in their statements. Initially, they reported that Tiwari was armed and dangerous, but later suggested he was mentally unstable and being moved to a mental health facility. Following the incident, authorities claimed that Tiwari fired upon them, prompting a fatal response. However, a viral video purportedly depicts him surrendering, casting doubt on the police's narrative.
Bihar Minister Sinha labeled the event "unfortunate" and praised the government's decision to launch a judicial inquiry, asserting it was a positive step toward uncovering the truth. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the RJD and Congress, are intensifying their condemnations, with the RJD offering legal assistance to Tiwari's family and organizing protests. The situation is evolving, and the scrutiny on the state's governance continues to mount.
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