Katihar, Bihar: A man was killed while two other sustained critical injuries as the police opened fire on protesters who staged a demonstration over frequent power outages in Katihar district of Bihar on Wednesday.
The incident occurred at Barsoi block when local villagers were staging a dharna at the block office with a demand to provide uninterrupted power supply in the region.
The area is facing electricity scarcity for the last few weeks and this is badly affecting their farming and irrigation. The villagers have claimed that the absence of rain led to a drought-like situation and they may face heavy loss if plantation of paddy does not take place at time.
The officer said a 34-year-old man, identified as Khurshid Alam, a resident of Baasal village, died in the firing while two others were injured and have been rushed to a hospital. “Khurshid Alam, a resident of Baasal village, has died. Two others, hailing from adjoining villages, were rushed to a hospital,” he said.
Katihar Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar said heavy deployment of forces has been made in the area to maintain law and order.