CHAOS AFTER AUTO DRIVER’S DEATH

CHAOS AFTER AUTO DRIVER’S DEATH

14-FEB-ENG 13

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------An auto driver, who was allegedly harassed during a challan in Ara, Bihar, died during treatment. He was undergoing treatment at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) in Patna, where he died on Sunday. Upon receiving the news of his death, family members and local residents were outraged.

The deceased's family members placed the body at the Ara Police Line intersection and protested against the DTO and police administration. The protesters alleged that the police administration issues challans without reason and harasses drivers.

The deceased's close relatives say, "Not only are fines imposed in the name of challans, but the police station's private drivers also pose as officers and intimidate them. Protests can even lead to physical violence."

The deceased's aunt alleged that after the challan was issued, she was pulled out of her tempo in the middle of the road, beaten, her hair pulled, and abused. Hurt by the insult, he attempted self-immolation at the Police Line intersection. After suffering severe burns, he was initially admitted to Ara Sadar Hospital, from where his condition worsened and he was referred to Patna.

A heavy police force was deployed to address the situation. City Police Station in-charge Devraj Rai remained on the scene, constantly pacifying the crowd to prevent the angry mob from taking any drastic action. Administrative officials calmed the crowd and assured action on their demands.

SDPO Raj Kumar Sah provided immediate relief to the family of the deceased, including 2 quintals of wheat, 2 quintals of rice, and ₹20,000 in financial assistance. He also assured them that the case would be investigated impartially and that legal action would be taken if any officer or employee was found to be involved.

Several local representatives, including CPI(ML) leader Muddin Ansari, Ward Councilor Samrat Saxena (Ward No. 8), and former Ward Councilor Lalu Kumar, were present at the protest. They demanded a fair investigation and strict action against the culprits.