Bihar minor assault video case: Accused shot in police encounter

Patna: The main accused in the Jamui minor harassment case, Nandan Yadav, was injured in a police encounter on Tuesday, according to reports, and was taken to hospital for treatment. Initial reports said he suffered a gunshot injury to his leg, although authorities had not immediately provided full details about the circumstances of the encounter.

The development came a day after Bihar Police arrested three people and formed a Special Investigation Team to identify and apprehend others allegedly involved in the September 19 incident involving two minors. Police had identified around seven people from the viral footage, with raids underway for those still at large. Bihar Police have also registered cases against around 120 social media profile holders for allegedly circulating material that revealed the identity of the minor girl, warning people against sharing or reposting content that could identify the victims.

Reports on Tuesday said Nandan Yadav, identified by police as the main accused, was injured on leg during an encounter with the police. Further official details about how the confrontation began, whether shots were exchanged and the precise circumstances in which he was injured were not immediately available.

What happened in the Jamui case?

The original incident allegedly took place on September 19, when two Class 10 students were returning after going out together in Jamui. Police said a group confronted and allegedly harassed the two minors, with the incident later captured on video and circulated online.

After the footage emerged, police traced the victims and registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the POCSO Act. An SIT headed by the Jamui SDPO was formed, while raids were launched to locate the remaining suspects.

Police act against those sharing the video

Bihar Police have separately acted against social media accounts accused of revealing the identity of the minor victims. Around 120 profiles have reportedly been named in FIRs over circulation of the material.

Police have appealed to people not to share the footage or disclose the names, faces or other identifying information of the minors.

The incident has also triggered a political dispute in Bihar, with opposition leaders questioning the state government's handling of law and order. BJP and JD(U) leaders have said the incident should not be politicised and that police action is underway.

The National Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the case and directed the Bihar DGP to ensure the identification and arrest of those involved and a time-bound investigation.