Bihar’s Jungle Raj: Jolt In Jamui

In Bihar's Jamui district, a shocking incident of violence against two Class 10 students has sparked questions about law and order. On September 19, a scooter carrying the students was stopped by a group of youths near the Jamui-Lakhisarai road. The male student was assaulted, while the female student was allegedly subjected to groping, dragging, and harassment.

The incident was captured on video and quickly circulated online. The police have registered a case under the POCSO Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, arresting three suspects and forming a Special Investigation Team to identify the remaining perpetrators. The most troubling aspect of this incident is that it occurred on a public road, where witnesses could have intervened.

The victims resisted the attackers, making the footage crucial for police identification. However, this should not be seen as a reason to be complacent. Authorities need to question why such a group felt empowered to commit such acts in broad daylight. It's equally distressing that some leaders within the ruling coalition tried to downplay the episode as isolated or sporadic.

Regardless of statistical significance, the incident was deeply personal for the victims. Bihar has invested heavily in programs aimed at improving women's and girls' lives and mobility. The bicycle scheme for schoolgirls introduced in 2006 is a notable example. Despite progress, women continue to vote in higher numbers than men in recent Bihar elections.

The government must ensure women feel safe while traveling on public roads. The response should extend beyond arrests, with a thorough investigation of all individuals involved, strict prosecution according to law, and a professional examination of the patrol personnel's conduct. Ultimately, Bihar must work towards creating a society where women enjoy the same freedoms, dignity, and rights as men, ensuring that such incidents do not mar the path to progress in Jamui.