Bihar minister and Jamui BJP MLA Shreyasi Singh’s remarks on the alleged harassment of two minors in Jamui have triggered a political controversy.
The incident took place on September 19, when a teenage boy and girl were allegedly stopped and harassed by a group of people. A video of the incident later surfaced on social media, prompting police action and widespread outrage. Police registered a case under the POCSO Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Three people were arrested, while an SIT was formed to investigate the case and identify other suspects.
Speaking about the incident, Singh said the treatment of the two teenagers was unacceptable. However, during an interview, she also remarked that “moral policing can be done in a more decent and elegant fashion”, while arguing that people may have their own views about how others choose to live.
Singh said the manner in which the teenagers were allegedly treated could not be tolerated and added that the incident should serve as a precedent to prevent similar incidents in the future. Her comments subsequently drew criticism from opposition parties.
Congress leader Pawan Khera criticised the remarks, arguing that interference in another person’s life does not become acceptable simply because it is carried out in a supposedly “decent” manner. The Aam Aadmi Party also attacked Singh over the comments and accused her of defending moral policing.
The controversy comes as police continue their investigation into the Jamui incident. Authorities have identified several people allegedly visible in the video and are conducting raids to trace those who remain at large. Police have also begun efforts to remove the footage from social media platforms because it involves minors.
The case has also drawn attention to the safety of minors in public spaces and the legal consequences of harassment. The National Commission for Women has taken note of the incident and sought action from the authorities.
Separately, police said key accused Nandan Yadav was injured in the leg during an encounter while officers were attempting to arrest him on Tuesday. He was subsequently taken for medical treatment.
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