In a major disciplinary action, the Bihar Police suspended Station House Officer Ram Chandra Mandal of Barsoi in Katihar district after a CCTV video surfaced showing him harassing a brother and sister dining at a local restaurant. The officer’s suspension, announced on October 28, followed an internal inquiry confirming his misconduct and use of indecent language, which brought disrepute to the force.
The incident occurred on October 24 at the BR-11 eatery in Barsoi, where the siblings had gone for dinner. The CCTV footage shows the officer approaching their table and asking the man, “Who is this sitting with you?” When the man replied that she was his sister, the situation escalated as the officer allegedly accused him of speaking disrespectfully. The heated exchange drew attention from other diners and staff present at the restaurant.
The video quickly spread across social media, sparking widespread outrage. Netizens condemned the officer’s behaviour as a clear example of police overreach and misuse of authority. The Katihar police headquarters promptly ordered a departmental investigation. The inquiry confirmed that the officer’s conduct was “improper, offensive, and against police discipline.” Based on these findings, Mandal was suspended pending further departmental proceedings.
Officials said that the decision was taken to maintain the integrity of the police service and uphold public confidence. Senior officers stated that any behaviour undermining the dignity of the uniform would not be tolerated. They added that strict disciplinary action would follow against any personnel found engaging in similar misconduct.
The timing of the incident—occurring amid heightened security during the Bihar Assembly election period—added further controversy. Citizens and rights activists criticised the conduct as symptomatic of a deeper issue within law enforcement, where ordinary interactions are sometimes marred by unnecessary aggression.
Reports suggest that the officer entered the restaurant following an unverified complaint about “anti-social activity” in the area. However, the situation escalated when he began interrogating the siblings without justification. Witnesses at the scene confirmed that the officer raised his voice and used intimidating language, even after being told that the two were related.
The video’s virality prompted public figures and civil society groups to call for police reforms, including the introduction of body-worn cameras for officers on duty. Many users on social media argued that such measures would ensure transparency, accountability, and protection of both citizens and law enforcement officers during public interactions.
Senior police officials in Bihar reiterated that the department is committed to maintaining discipline and professionalism. A spokesperson stated that “strict action will be taken against any officer whose conduct brings embarrassment to the force.” The statement further emphasised that police officers must exercise restraint, particularly in public spaces where citizens have the right to dignity and privacy.
Human rights advocates pointed out that this incident reflects the need for continuous sensitivity training for police personnel, especially during election periods when enforcement activity intensifies. They urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment or gender-insensitive behaviour by uniformed officers.
The Katihar district administration has been directed to review supervision protocols at the Barsoi police station to prevent future incidents of misconduct. Authorities have also been asked to ensure that public complaints are handled with fairness, discretion, and due process.
The swift suspension of SHO Ram Chandra Mandal demonstrates the Bihar Police’s acknowledgment of public outrage and its intent to preserve institutional credibility. However, observers believe this case should serve as a starting point for deeper structural reforms aimed at improving transparency, trust, and professional ethics within the state’s police system.
