The Terahvi ceremony of Bharat Tiwari, who died in a police encounter in Bhojpur district on June 17, is taking place today with extensive arrangements and increased security measures. Organizers anticipate a significant attendance, preparing to cater to 20,000 to 25,000 individuals, with provisions for an additional 15,000 if needed. The event commenced in the afternoon, drawing visitors from Bihar and neighboring states.
To manage the expected crowd, two large tents have been set up in nearby fields, complete with seating and resting cots for attendees. Additionally, a spacious tent with cooling amenities has been erected in front of Bharat Tiwari’s residence to offer relief from the prevailing heat. Bharat Tiwari’s family members, Kashinath Tiwari and Chandan Tiwari, are expecting guests not only from various states but also from Nepal. They have ensured arrangements for lodging, meals, and other necessities to facilitate a hassle-free experience for visitors.
Apart from the memorial feast, organizers have organized Akhand Puja and Prasad for around 15,000 devotees. During the ceremony, Bharat Tiwari’s family raised concerns about the investigation progress into the encounter. Chandan Tiwari criticized the lack of concrete action despite the FIR registration against the accused. Expressing trust in the judiciary, he highlighted perceived partiality in the local-level investigation.
The family also questioned the delay in progressing with the proposal to install a statue of Bharat Tiwari in the village. Asha Devi, Bharat Tiwari’s mother, alleged inaction against the police personnel implicated in the case despite the FIR. The incident has attracted political attention, with BJP MLA Anand Mishra suggesting a judicial inquiry, strict repercussions for any wrongdoing, and systemic reforms to prevent similar occurrences.
Bhojpur Police announced legal action against an individual from Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, for social media posts related to the Bharat Tiwari incident. The individual, Deepak Dixit alias Pandit, allegedly made inflammatory remarks, threats against police, and unverified allegations regarding the encounter. Police disclosed ongoing technical and legal scrutiny of his digital content, alongside previous serious criminal cases in Madhya Pradesh.
Supporters of Bharat Tiwari plan to escalate their efforts, proposing a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 17. Their demands include action against the implicated police personnel and an independent investigation into the encounter.
