Patna: A Muslim auto-rickshaw driver lost his life after an assault following a dispute over parking space in Bihar’s Sitamarhi district. The incident has triggered protests, with residents and political leaders demanding swift action against all those accused.
The victim, Jamil Akhtar, suffered severe injuries after an argument reportedly broke out when he parked his auto-rickshaw outside a shop. Police said the altercation took place on Friday evening. Akhtar was taken to hospital, where he died on Saturday.
According to family members, four men attacked Akhtar during the dispute. They identified the accused as Raja Kumar, Batto Kumar, Sonu Kumar, and another individual whose identity has not been disclosed.
Police registered a case after the incident and arrested Sonu Kumar. Officials said efforts are underway to trace the remaining suspects. Investigators are recording witness statements and examining available evidence. Police stated the investigation will determine the full sequence of events before further legal action.
The death sparked protests in the area. Local residents accused authorities of delaying the registration of the case and demanded immediate arrests of all those named by the victim’s family.
Reacting to the incident, AIMIM Bihar president and MLA Akhtarul Iman called for a speedy trial. He demanded capital punishment for those found guilty and sought compensation of Rs 50 lakh for Akhtar’s family. He also expressed concern over incidents of mob violence reported in the state in recent years.
Police maintained that the case appears to have originated from a dispute over parking space. They added that the investigation remains in progress and assured that action will follow against every person found responsible under the law.
