Party alleges caste-based violence, seeks arrest of accused and compensation for families
Our Correspondent
Rajgir (Nalanda) A fact-finding team of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation has demanded swift action against those responsible for the alleged lynching of two Dalit youths at the Jhunkia Baba Temple in Rajgir during the ongoing Malmas Mela, describing the incident as a grim reminder of continuing caste-based violence in Bihar.
The delegation, which visited Rajgir and Nagarnausa on June 23, met the families of the deceased youths—Shravan Paswan and Pintu Paswan—and gathered details about the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The team also reviewed recent police action against protesters demanding the establishment of a degree college in Nagarnausa.
The fact-finding team included CPI(ML) Liberation Central Committee member and former MLA Gopal Ravidas, former MLA Manoj Manzil, Nalanda district secretary Shrinivas Sharma, district committee member Sunil Kumar, Kishore Sao and several other party leaders.
According to the party, family members of the victims alleged that the two youths were subjected to caste-based discrimination before being assaulted inside the temple premises. They claimed that Shravan and Pintu were asked about their caste identity and were subsequently attacked by a group of people. Family members further alleged that the victims’ hands and legs were tied before they were beaten severely.
The delegation expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of support in their pursuit of justice. CPI(ML) leaders stated that the incident reflected deep-rooted social discrimination and called for strict legal action against all those involved.
Background of the Incident
The deaths occurred during the annual Malmas fair at the renowned Jhunkia Baba Temple in Rajgir. According to reports, Pintu Paswan, 24, and Shravan Paswan, 18, both residents of Ganjpar village in Nalanda district, had gone to the temple fair on the night of June 15.
Temple authorities alleged that four youths had entered a dining area within the temple complex around 3:30 a.m. and were suspected of attempting theft. Following the suspicion, a group of devotees reportedly apprehended the youths, leading to a violent confrontation.
All India Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Antaryami Sharan said that several theft incidents had been reported at the temple in recent days, creating resentment among devotees. He stated that the large gathering associated with the Malmas Mela had heightened tensions at the site.
While local authorities have been investigating the case, the incident has sparked political controversy and renewed debate over caste discrimination and mob violence in the state.
Demands Raised by CPI(ML)
Following its inquiry, CPI(ML) Liberation demanded the immediate arrest of all accused persons, including those identified by the victims’ families as key perpetrators. The party claimed that the principal accused had not yet been arrested and urged the administration to expedite the investigation.
The party also called for:
- A fast-track trial in the case;
- The strictest punishment for those found guilty;
- Compensation of ₹50 lakh each to the families of the deceased;
- Government employment for eligible family members of the victims.
Party leaders said that ensuring accountability in the case was essential to restoring public confidence in the rule of law and protecting vulnerable communities from similar incidents.
Concern Over Nagarnausa Protest Crackdown
During the visit, the fact-finding team also interacted with residents associated with the movement demanding the establishment of a degree college in Nagarnausa. CPI(ML) leaders criticised what they described as repression against participants in the democratic agitation and pledged continued support for the campaign.
The party argued that access to higher education remains a key concern in the region and said that citizens should be allowed to raise such demands peacefully without fear of punitive action.
Call for Accountability
In a statement issued after the visit, CPI(ML) Liberation said the Rajgir incident had once again highlighted the persistence of caste oppression and violence. The party urged the state government to ensure a transparent investigation and take concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The case has drawn attention from political parties and social organisations, with demands growing for a thorough probe into the circumstances that led to the deaths of the two young men. Authorities have yet to issue a detailed public response to the allegations made by the victims’ families and the fact-finding team.
As investigations continue, the incident remains a focal point in discussions on caste relations, mob violence and the protection of constitutional rights in Bihar.