Three people have been arrested in Bihar’s Jamui following the assault and molestation of a teenage boy and girl returning from coaching classes, according to local police. The incident, which took place on September 19, 2026, between 6 pm and 7 pm, triggered social media outrage after videos of the confrontation circulated online.
Police Investigation and Arrests in Jamui
According to Jamui Superintendent of Police Vishwajeet Dayal, the confrontation occurred as the two Class 10 students were returning from coaching on a scooter. Footage captured a group of youths surrounding the minors, questioning them, and subjecting them to physical assault and molestation. Initial reports and video evidence showed the teenagers apologizing and pleading with the crowd to let them go.
Rakesh Kumar, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Munger Police Range, told The Indian Express that authorities have taken three suspects into custody so far. Jamui SDPO IPS Deepti Monali noted that an First Information Report (FIR) has been filed incorporating provisions from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) alongside the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Investigators have invoked Sections 74 and 76 of the BNS, Section 3(5), and Sections 8 and 12 of the POCSO Act.
Police officers visited the victims’ homes on Monday to record their statements in a confidential setting. Preliminary findings indicate that at least six to seven youths were involved in the incident, and special teams are conducting raids at suspected locations to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Political Condemnation and Public Fallout
The viral footage sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders. Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi called the incident deeply disturbing, stating that the culprits must be identified and prosecuted swiftly under the POCSO Act. Gandhi criticized the state administration over the safety of citizens on public roads during evening hours.
The attack has transformed into a political flashpoint in Bihar. Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed targeted the ruling dispensation over law and order concerns, demanding strict punishment for all individuals involved in the harassment captured on camera.
Did You Know? The investigation into the Jamui incident led to the formation of special police teams and an SIT, with authorities registering the case at the Nagar police station after tracing the minor victims through social media footage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the incident in Jamui take place?
According to Jamui Superintendent of Police Vishwajeet Dayal, the incident occurred on September 19, 2026, between 6 pm and 7 pm.
What legal charges have been filed against the accused?
Jamui SDPO IPS Deepti Monali stated that an FIR was registered under Sections 74 and 76 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Section 3(5), and Sections 8 and 12 of the POCSO Act.
How many arrests have been made by the police?
DIG Rakesh Kumar confirmed that three individuals have been arrested, while police search for additional suspects identified in the video footage.
What measures can local authorities implement to better protect students traveling from evening coaching classes in public areas?