The controversy surrounding the Bharat Tiwari encounter in Bihar’s Bhojpur district has intensified, with anger and protests growing across the region. A “Sarvdaliya Mahapanchayat” (all-party grand assembly) has been called in Bilauti village to demand justice for Bharat Tiwari. His family and supporters allege that the incident was not a genuine police encounter but a custodial killing. According to Bharat’s family, he had already surrendered and thrown away his weapon when he was shot. Videos circulating on social media allegedly show him agreeing to lay down his arms after being assured that his demands would be conveyed to authorities. Another video reportedly captures villagers expressing fears that he would be killed despite surrendering. The issue has now taken a political turn, with opposition parties accusing the government of conducting a fake encounter and some leaders linking the case to caste-based discrimination, claiming Bharat was targeted because he belonged to the Brahmin community. Meanwhile, the state government has assured a fair and impartial investigation. A large gathering is expected at the Mahapanchayat, with organizers claiming participation from thousands of people representing multiple communities. The meeting is likely to renew demands for an independent probe and discuss the future course of the justice movement.


