Toddy‑related Arrest Leads to Suspicious Death in Bihar Lockup

The Excise Department's raid in Haiwatpur, Arwal, resulted in the arrest of three men on charges of toddy consumption. While being held at the department's lock‑up, 50‑year‑old Anil Singh Kushwaha, also known as Tuntun Mahato, was found dead under unclear circumstances.

Relatives allege that the police used excessive force, beating the detainee after taking him from his residence. They claim that the victim was not taken to a hospital even after his condition deteriorated, pointing to police negligence as a factor in his demise.

Outraged villagers encircled the lock‑up, staged a sit‑in, and blocked the major thoroughfare NH‑139, causing major traffic snarls. The protest lasted several hours, with demonstrators demanding accountability and a transparent inquiry.

Local dignitaries have urged the administration to launch an independent forensic probe. DSP Kumar Sanjay assured that a magistrate‑overseen post‑mortem with video documentation will be conducted, and any misconduct by police personnel will attract legal action.