200 protestors booked for demanding action against radical Islamists in Gopalganj murder case

On January 27, 2023, a young man named Ankit, who went to buy vegetables, was stabbed to death by a radical Muslim mob in Basdila village of Gopalganj, Bihar. Another youth identified as Hariom was also injured in this attack. According to the reports, a total of 17 accused were named in this case, out of which 12 have been arrested. Further, while 3 accused have surrendered in the court, the remaining 4 accused are absconding.

Bihar Police have registered a case not only against the accused but also against the people who demanded justice for the victim. After Ankit’s murder, the locals got enraged and staged protests against the administration. The locals protested by seizing the dead body. The Police took cognizance of the incident and registered FIR against hundreds of protesters, including 39 named ones.

The locals residing in the Pasrama village came out on the streets after learning about Ankit Kushwaha’s murder. They staged protests demanding justice for the victim and stringent action against the accused. During the demonstrations, police clashed with the protesters. They also resorted to lathi-charge on the protesters.

Reportedly, the Bihar police have charged a total of 211 protesters including 39 named in this case. Police claim that this case has been registered after verifying the video footage of the protest and that any person who wants his name removed from the FIR will have to submit his proof of innocence.