Ara: The judicial inquiry commission headed by retired Patna high court judge Vinod Kumar Sinha on Thursday began its on-ground investigation into the controversial death of Bharat Bhushan Tiwari, visiting Bilauti village under Shahpur police station in Bhojpur district, meeting the bereaved family and inspecting the site of the alleged police encounter.The inquiry team, accompanied by Shahabad DIG Satya Prakash, Bhojpur DM Tanai Sultania and SP Raj, spent several hours in the village gathering information from family members, locals and officials as part of the probe ordered by the state govt.During his interaction with the family, Sinha listened to their grievances and assured them that the commission would conduct an impartial inquiry to establish the facts and ensure justice.Expressing sympathy for the family, Sinha said, “I can understand your pain and grief. When such a tragic incident occurs in a family, it is but natural to feel the agony. But now the incident has occurred, one can only try to rectify the situation as far as possible. I request you to cooperate me in the investigation. You can present all the evidence, photos or videos before the inquiry commission. I assure you that all the materials that you present before the panel as evidence will be thoroughly examined.”The family reiterated its allegation that Bharat was shot after surrendering to police. When Bharat’s younger brother asked, “Have the police got the right to shoot at somebody who has surrendered,” Sinha replied, “These are the things that is subject to investigation. When one goes to a court with an allegation, the court has to listen to the statements of both sides.”Family members also requested the commission to facilitate the return of Bharat’s cellphone, which was seized by police. Sinha assured them he would take up the matter with the authorities concerned.After the commission concluded its visit, Bharat’s mother, who has lodged an FIR against the then Jagdishpur SDPO, the then Shahpur SHO and other police personnel, said the family had placed its demands before the panel.“The retired judge asked us to submit a written complaint to the inquiry panel about all our grievances and complaints. I categorically told him that I want nothing short of ‘phansi’ (death sentence) to all those who are found guilty by the court. I will not be satisfied until I get justice. Bharat Tiwari was innocent and only wanted to serve the society….but he was killed,” she said.The commission also inspected the location where the alleged encounter took place on June 17 and collected information from locals and officials.
