Patna, April 5: Tensions escalated in Katihar district, Bihar, following a death in police custody. Violent protests erupted in several areas, prompting police to use force in the Falka region.
The incident involves 24-year-old Rakesh Kumar Yadav, whose death has led to serious accusations and clashes between locals and law enforcement. According to police, Rakesh fell ill while in custody for a motorcycle theft case and died while being transported for medical treatment.
However, his family and local residents have dismissed this explanation, alleging that his death resulted from police brutality.
As news of the incident spread, anger quickly turned to violence. Protesters blocked State Highway 77, causing significant traffic disruptions. Police were pelted with stones, chased, and assaulted, resulting in injuries to several officers.
During the clashes, a constable’s service rifle was seized by the crowd, and there was an attack on the police station, leading to vandalism. Among the injured are Pothiya OP in-charge Naveen Kumar and constable Sanjeev Kumar, both reported to be in serious condition.
In response to the escalating situation, the district police administration has taken action. Station House Officer Ravi Kumar Rai and investigating officer Kundan Kumar Patel have been suspended on preliminary charges of negligence.
Katihar Superintendent of Police Shikhar Chaudhary stated that an investigation is underway, and additional police forces have been deployed to restore order. In a written statement, the SP noted that the situation worsened after some individuals blocked roads following the incident at the Falka police station.
He mentioned that police teams arrived promptly to control and calm the crowd, during which some individuals allegedly seized a government weapon from a constable. The SP further reported that the weapon has since been recovered and urged the public to maintain peace and cooperate with authorities.
Police confirmed that the situation is now under control, with additional forces deployed as a precaution. However, tensions in the area remain high, and investigations into the death in custody and subsequent violence are ongoing.
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