In a distressing episode of alleged fratricide within the Border Security Force (BSF), a constable opened fire inside the shared battalion headquarters in Malda district, resulting in the deaths of two fellow personnel and critically injuring a third. The tragic event occurred on July 23, roughly between 3:50 and 4:00 PM, at the headquarters of the 71st and 119th Battalions, located in the 17 Mile area under the Baishnabnagar police station.
Sequence of Events
Initial reports from both police and BSF sources reveal that Constable Shivam Kumar Mishra of the 119th Battalion was under custody in relation to court-martial proceedings at the time of the shooting. He reportedly overpowered the sentry stationed at the entrance and seized the sentry’s service rifle, allowing him to open fire aimlessly towards the barracks, where other personnel were resting after their duty shift.
Three members of the BSF were struck by bullets and were immediately transported to Malda Medical College and Hospital. Upon arrival, medical personnel declared two of them dead, while the third remains hospitalized and in critical condition.
The Victims
The fatalities have been identified as:
- Head Constable Ajay Kumar Singh (51), from Manjhi in Saran district, Bihar, who was affiliated with the 71st Battalion.
- Constable Ambadar Suresh Durgu (36/37), from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, also serving with the 71st Battalion.
Both victims succumbed either at the scene or shortly after reaching medical attention.
The injured personnel is identified as Head Constable Bikash Brahma (44), a resident of Mohanda village in Hooghly district, West Bengal. He sustained injuries to his legs and is currently under serious care at the medical college. An eyewitness account from another injured colleague near the barracks described hearing sustained gunfire. He sought refuge under his bed but still faced injury.
Accused and Background
The alleged shooter, Constable Shivam Kumar Mishra, hails from Chhattisgarh and has been taken into custody by BSF personnel before being handed over to local police. Reports indicate that Mishra has a troubling disciplinary history; he was previously involved in an incident where he fired at colleagues about a year ago and faced repercussions under BSF laws. Although he recently completed his punishment, it was reportedly anticipated that he would be sent home due to his disciplinary issues.
Preliminary inquiries suggest that Mishra may have been battling mental health challenges, such as stress or depression. Malda Superintendent of Police Anupam Singh mentioned that mental health issues could potentially be a catalyst for this violent outburst, though the definitive motive remains under scrutiny. Some accounts also hint at a lingering resentment stemming from his previous punishment.
Official Response and Investigation
The Baishnabnagar police have initiated a formal investigation and registered a case following the incident. A robust police presence was dispatched to the location shortly after the shooting unfolded.
BSF Malda Sector Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Surendra Kumar Jha confirmed that an internal inquiry had been launched to ascertain how Mishra was able to obtain a weapon despite being under supervision. Senior officers from the BSF have also visited the hospital to provide support and updates to the families of both the deceased and the injured personnel.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the Malda Medical College for post-mortem examinations. Investigators are scrutinizing various aspects of the situation, including how the accused managed to overpower the sentry and access a weapon while in custody, along with considering the potential influence of mental health and the impact of previous disciplinary actions.
This incident has cast a shadow of shock and concern within the BSF community in the sector, with further updates expected as both police and internal investigations unfold.
