Student Killed in Mizoram Police Firing

August 04, 2015: A class 11 student was killed in police firing meant to disperse a mob that surrounded the Chawngte/Kamalanagar police station after youth and student leaders were detained ahead of a planned 12-hour bandh to protest alleged wrongful recruitment in government jobs.

The deceased has been identified as Agosh Chakma, 20, a native of Old Baseisora town in the Chakma Autonomous District. Police sources said a mob of between 300 to 400 people gathered outside the police station after police detained nine student and youth leaders an hour ahead of the 6 am to 6 pm bandh call.

The Central Young Chakma Association and the Mizoram Chakma Students Union had called the band to protest alleged wrongful recreuitment of government employees by the Chakma Autonomous District authorities. Leaders of the two groups were among those detained. The mob surrounded the police station and pelted stones at the building.

Police evenually resorted to firing. At least 11 rounds were fired, of which one 9mm bullet hit Agosh Chakma between one eye and a ear, according to a policeman at the scene.

The situation remains tense and police sources in Aizawl said they have received reports that the mob has attacked properties belonging to the CAD Council leaders, including residential buildings where council members live, and have destroyed at least four vehicles. Police sources said there are just about 40 policemen stationed in the Chawngte/Kamalanagar area and they are hard-pressed to contain the mob violence.