BJP MLA Nabin Jain booked for celebratory firing in Titlagarh Ram Navami
BJP MLA Nabin Jain booked for celebratory firing in Titlagarh Ram Navami
Controversy grows as Odisha police file cases under BNS and Arms Act after videos show BJP MLA firing during a Ram Navami procession in Titlagarh.
A BJP MLA, Nabin Jain, has been booked for celebratory firing during a Ram Navami procession in Titlagarh, Odisha. The charges span Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 125, which covers acts endangering public safety, and Sections 25 and 27 of the Arms Act for illegal possession, manufacture, or use of firearms. The case follows videos that circulated widely on social media over the weekend, prompting authorities to act.
The incident unfolded Friday evening as hundreds of devotees and supporters moved along the procession route that began at the Radha Krishna Temple and wound through key junctions, including Shastri Chowk and Old Bank Chowk. Eyewitnesses said Jain fired three rounds into the air at different points along the route, amid the festive atmosphere.
According to the police, Jain was seen waving a flag before taking a pistol from his personal security officer, Premachand Nag, and firing into the air. The weapon was returned to Nag after the shots were fired. Nag was suspended for alleged negligence of duty and has been summoned for questioning as part of the ongoing probe.
Jain had initially dismissed the episode as a playful act intended to energize the crowd, suggesting the pistol used was a toy gun. However, police later clarified that the firearm was licensed and registered in Jain’s name, prompting a formal investigation. Bolangir SP Abilash G. confirmed the firing occurred on Friday evening during the shobha yatra and emphasized that celebratory firing is prohibited under the Arms Act due to safety risks posed to the public.
The development has sparked a debate about accountability for public figures during religious processions, with authorities promising a thorough investigation. As investigators examine sequence of events and security protocols, the incident underscores ongoing concerns about the handling of firearms by elected representatives and the potential impact on public safety.
