Class 10 students groped, harassed: Bihar minister calls assault ‘isolated incident’ as 3 arrested, SIT formed
Patna: A video showing two Class 10 students allegedly being harassed in Bihar’s Jamui has triggered police action, with three people arrested, an SIT formed and state ministers responding to the case.
The girl and her male classmate were allegedly stopped and harassed by a group while returning from coaching in Jamui on September 19. The incident was recorded and the footage later circulated widely on social media.
Police took suo motu cognisance after the video surfaced and registered an FIR. Three people have been arrested, while an SIT is investigating the case and looking for others allegedly involved.
Why did the case come to light?
According to police, the students had not initially filed a formal complaint. The viral footage brought the incident to the attention of the authorities, who subsequently traced the teenagers and began the investigation.
State ministers have said those allegedly involved will face legal action. Bihar Rural Works Minister Sunil Kumar said those involved would be arrested, while Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh, who represents Jamui, said three people had already been arrested and others were being pursued.
The National Commission for Women took suo motu cognisance and directed the Bihar DGP to ensure an FIR, legal assistance and psychological support for the victims.
The NCW also called for steps to stop further circulation of the objectionable video involving the minors.
The incident has triggered a political dispute over women's safety and law and order in Bihar. Opposition leaders have criticised the state government's response, while representatives of the ruling alliance have pointed to the arrests and ongoing police investigation.
The SIT is expected to identify and arrest other people allegedly involved. Police are also taking action over the circulation of the video, while authorities have been asked to protect the privacy and dignity of the minor victims.