Bihar Police Officer Suspended After Restaurant Harassment Video Goes Viral
A Bihar police officer was suspended after a CCTV video of him arguing with a man and his sister at a restaurant went viral on social media. The incident, which occurred at BR-11 Restaurant in Barsoi on October 24, has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of police conduct in the state.
The officer, identified as the Station House Officer (SHO) of Barsoi Police Station, was seen confronting a man and woman sitting together. In the viral footage, the SHO approached their table and demanded, “Kaun hai ye?” (Who is this?). The man, appearing calm, replied, “Behen hai meri” (She is my sister). However, the officer’s tone quickly escalated, accusing the man of “talking back” and warning him to “watch his tone.”
As the argument intensified, another police officer joined in. Meanwhile, other diners observed the confrontation unfold, and a bystander attempted to intervene to calm the situation.
Inquiry Finds Officer Guilty of Misconduct
Following the viral spread of the video across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and WhatsApp, senior police officials in Katihar district took immediate cognizance. Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), Katihar, ordered an internal inquiry into the SHO’s conduct.
According to the inquiry report, the officer used “indecent language” and “behaved in a negligent and arbitrary manner,” tarnishing the image of the Bihar Police. The report concluded that his actions violated the department’s code of conduct and displayed behavior unbecoming of a law enforcement officer.
Authorities swiftly suspended the SHO pending further disciplinary proceedings. A senior police spokesperson confirmed that additional departmental action is under review to ensure accountability and transparency.
Public Reaction and Accountability Concerns
The viral video triggered widespread public criticism, with many social media users questioning police arrogance and lack of sensitivity in handling civilians. The hashtag #BiharPolice trended locally, with users demanding stricter punishment for officers who misuse authority.
One user commented, “If this is how officers behave in public, imagine what happens off camera.” Others praised the swift suspension as a positive step toward restoring public trust.
Civil rights activists also weighed in, emphasizing the need for behavioral training for officers. “The police must remember they are public servants, not enforcers of fear,” said one Patna-based lawyer.
This is not the first time Bihar Police have faced scrutiny over misconduct. Similar incidents in the past have sparked calls for better sensitivity and human rights training within the force.
Police Department Promises Reform
In response to the backlash, the Katihar Police Department issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to ethical policing. The statement read, “The department does not tolerate any misconduct or misbehavior by its officers. Every citizen deserves respect and fair treatment.”
Officials added that disciplinary mechanisms will be strengthened, and officers will undergo regular behavioral and communication training to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Moreover, the department plans to expand CCTV coverage in police stations and public engagement areas to ensure transparency and deterrence against misconduct.
Public Trust and Institutional Responsibility
While the suspension demonstrates departmental accountability, experts believe sustained reforms are needed to rebuild public confidence. Legal analyst Prakash Jha noted, “Quick action is commendable, but systemic change requires continuous monitoring and independent oversight.”
As Bihar continues modernizing its police force, citizens hope that this incident serves as a lesson in professionalism and empathy for all law enforcement personnel.
The video remains widely circulated online, symbolizing the growing power of digital evidence in ensuring accountability in public service institutions.