Patna, Sep 24: Bihar Minister Ashok Choudhary on Thursday defended the state government’s response to the recent alleged sexual assault and harassment cases in Samastipur and Jamui, saying the administration would take action against those responsible.
Choudhary said criminal incidents occur in other countries as well, including the US and Japan, and stressed that the government had no intention of protecting any accused.
“Where do incidents not happen? They occur in the US and Japan as well,” Choudhary said, adding that the focus should be on the action taken by the government after an incident.
He said speedy trials would be conducted in such cases to ensure punishment for those found guilty.
“For any incident that occurs, a speedy trial will be conducted to ensure punishment,” the minister said.
Choudhary also said that no chief minister, prime minister or president could guarantee that such incidents would never occur in the future.
“Neither the Chief Minister, the Prime Minister, the President, nor I can guarantee that such incidents will not happen in the future. If incidents do occur, the guilty will be dealt with full force of law,” he said.
Responding to demands from the opposition for the Chief Minister’s resignation, Choudhary said the Chief Minister’s earlier statement had to be understood in the context of whether the administration failed to take action against offenders.
Meanwhile, Samastipur MP Shambhavi Choudhary condemned the incident and appealed to people not to circulate videos that could reveal the victim’s face or identity.
“We humbly request everyone not to circulate videos related to the incident on social media with the girl’s face or identity,” she said.
She said protecting the victim’s identity and dignity was a collective responsibility and added that police were also working to ensure her identity remained secure.
“The honor, safety, and dignity of every daughter of Samastipur is our responsibility,” Shambhavi said.
Four people have been arrested in connection with the Samastipur case, according to reports, while authorities have also been pursuing action in the Jamui case.
