Allegations of targeted violence against Muslims spark widespread outrage; the government has lost control over law and order, says Tejashwi Yadav
Team Clarion
MADHUBANI – Allegations of police brutality in this Bihar city have sparked widespread outrage, with residents and political leaders accusing law enforcement of targeting Muslims and engaging in excessive violence. The situation has drawn national attention, raising concerns over police accountability and governance under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration.
Recent incidents in Benipatti town of Madhubani District, have led to accusations that the police used unnecessary force against civilians, particularly against members of the Muslim community. One of the victims, Mohammad Firoz, alleged that he was brutally beaten by police personnel without any provocation. “They barged into my home and started beating me mercilessly. I kept asking what my fault was, but they didn’t listen,” he recounted.
Reports suggest that this is not an isolated incident. Several residents have come forward with similar claims of police excesses. Witnesses from the Dhangha village described how law enforcement officials allegedly entered homes, beating women and children without any reason. “We live in fear. The police act as if they are above the law,” said an elderly resident of the village.
The controversy has prompted a strong political reaction. Opposition leaders have criticised the state government, accusing it of failing to control police misconduct. Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav visited the affected areas and met with victims. “The police have been given a free hand to oppress the poor and marginalised communities. This government has lost control over law and order,” he told a gathering in Benipatti.
Yadav further alleged that the police in Madhubani operate with impunity and that corruption has reached alarming levels. “Under Nitish Kumar’s rule, administrative chaos has spread across Bihar. Police brutality has become a tool to silence dissent,” he claimed.
The political representation in the region has also come under scrutiny. Critics argue that the ruling party’s leaders, including those from the BJP and JD(U), have failed to address police excesses. “For two decades, MPs from these parties have represented Madhubani, yet they have remained silent on these atrocities,” said a local activist.
Apart from the recent incidents, past cases of police inaction and brutality have also been highlighted. In 2024, an auto driver named Munna Jha was murdered in Kataya, but the accused remained at large despite an FIR being filed. In another case, a 29-year-old medical worker, Sunil Jha, was murdered in Jagat village, yet the investigation yielded no significant breakthroughs.
Human rights organisations have taken note of the reports and are reportedly considering intervention. Legal experts argue that if the allegations are substantiated, those responsible should face strict action. “Police brutality violates constitutional rights. Authorities must ensure accountability,” said legal expert Rajesh Prasad.
Despite growing demands for justice, the Bihar government and police officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the accusations. Residents, activists, and opposition leaders continue to pressure the administration for immediate action and judicial oversight into the alleged cases of police excesses.
With state assembly elections on the horizon, these allegations could have significant political ramifications. Many believe that issues of governance, police brutality, and law enforcement accountability will play a crucial role in shaping public opinion in Bihar. Meanwhile, the victims and their families remain hopeful for justice, as calls for an independent inquiry grow louder.