BJP MLA Ranjan Kumar gets AK-47 death threat in Muzaffarpur; two FIRs filed
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
BJP legislator Ranjan Kumar from Muzaffarpur, Bihar, has filed a formal complaint at the Mithanpura Police Station alleging death threats, defamatory social media posts, and physical assault by a local resident. In a parallel development, the accused has filed a counter-complaint, leading to the registration of two separate FIRs in the case.
The Death Threat Allegation
Ranjan Kumar, the BJP MLA from the Muzaffarpur Assembly constituency, alleged that Mukund Kumar and another youth from the Patahi area had been circulating misleading and defamatory content on social media using his photographs to damage his reputation. According to the MLA's complaint, when he objected to these posts, he was allegedly threatened with being killed using an AK-47 rifle.
Kumar further alleged that the accused claimed to have a criminal background, including prior imprisonment for illegal possession of an AK-47, and threatened to riddle everyone with bullets. The MLA has urged authorities to investigate the social media accounts involved and initiate action under the Information Technology (IT) Act.
The Confrontation and Counter-Case
Following the alleged threats, Ranjan Kumar, accompanied by supporters, reportedly visited the accused's residence to confront him over the objectionable posts. The situation allegedly escalated during the interaction, with the MLA claiming that Mukund Kumar became aggressive, used abusive language, and physically assaulted those present.
However, Mukund Kumar has filed a counter-complaint, accusing the MLA and his supporters of forcibly entering his home and assaulting him. This development has added a significant legal dimension to what began as a social media dispute.
Police Response and Investigation
Mithanpura Police Station SHO Ajay Kumar confirmed that two FIRs have been registered as per instructions from senior officers — one lodged by MLA Ranjan Kumar and another by Mukund Kumar. He stated that the investigation will rely on digital evidence and statements from eyewitnesses.
Copies of the MLA's complaint have been sent to senior officials including the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and the Cyber Crime Police unit in Muzaffarpur. Police have clarified that both sides' allegations are being examined impartially, and further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation.
What Happens Next
With two FIRs now on record, investigators are expected to scrutinise digital evidence from the social media accounts in question alongside eyewitness accounts. The involvement of the Cyber Crime Police unit signals that the online aspect of the dispute will receive dedicated attention. The outcome of this dual investigation is likely to have political ramifications in the Muzaffarpur constituency.