Bihar Police Officer Suspended for Firing AK-47 at Protesters; DGP Claims Weapon Discharged 'Without Orders'

On July 27-28, 2026, a viral video revealed that a Bihar police constable in Siwan district had fired an AK-47 rifle into the air during the ongoing NEET paper leak protests, sparking nationwide outrage about police conduct and rules of engagement. The state's Director General of Police (DGP) issued a statement claiming the weapon was discharged 'without orders' and suspended the constable, characterizing it as a deviation from protocol rather than authorized police response.

The incident occurred in the broader context of July 20 police actions in New Delhi where multiple protesters were injured during Delhi Police's handling of demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. These consecutive incidents—concentrated police actions against student protesters—created a narrative of systemic excessive force. The Bihar incident was particularly shocking because AK-47 rifles are military-grade automatic weapons, not standard police equipment, raising questions about weaponization of protest response and escalation protocols in paramilitary-style policing.

Opposition leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi, publicly demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and action against those responsible for police 'attacks' on students. The incident became a focal point in Rajya Sabha disruptions, with opposition members seeking government accountability. FIRs were filed regarding injuries sustained during the police firing, though the exact circumstances—whether deliberate targeting or indiscriminate aerial firing—became subject to dispute between police narratives and eyewitness accounts.

For aspirants, this case highlights the boundary between legitimate police action and constitutional violation. It raises questions about: (1) Police conduct under Article 21 (right to life); (2) Proportionality in use of force against peaceful protesters; (3) Accountability mechanisms for police excesses; (4) Rules of engagement in public order situations. The suspension of the constable rather than FIR demonstrates administrative discipline falling short of criminal accountability. Mains answers should discuss how police forces can balance law-and-order maintenance with fundamental rights protection.