Heavy jewellery taken amid throng at ministerial reception
Muzaffarpur — A public felicitation for Bihar Health Minister Nishant Kumar in Kurhani block descended into confusion when Janata Dal (United) leader Rajesh Mandal realised an expensive gold chain had been taken from his person amid dense crowds. The piece of jewellery is reported to be worth ₹7 lakh.
The incident unfolded as the minister's convoy halted at Sakri Chowk and supporters surged forward to greet him. A video that circulated widely on social media showed Mandal frantically searching the area after the crowd thinned, visibly alarmed when he found the chain missing. The clip drew significant attention online, leading to a prompt response from local law-enforcement.
According to reports, police have launched an inquiry into the theft. Local officers said they were examining the footage shared on social platforms and collecting statements from those present at the function to establish how the theft occurred amid the melee.
- Victim: Janata Dal (United) leader Rajesh Mandal
- Item stolen: gold chain; value reported as ₹7 lakh
- Location: Sakri Chowk, Kurhani block, Muzaffarpur
- Occasion: public felicitation for Bihar Health Minister Nishant Kumar
- Evidence: viral video circulating on social media platforms
Open public gatherings during political tours are common in the district and often draw large, enthusiastic crowds. Local residents and political workers said such events can quickly become crowded, which creates opportunities for pickpockets and opportunistic thefts if security measures are not tightened.
The video shows Mandal searching around and asking people if they had seen the chain; the footage attracted wide attention online and was used by police in early stages of their probe, according to reports.
Security arrangements at political processions and receptions in Muzaffarpur typically involve local police and party volunteers. Sources in the area noted that large crowds are a frequent feature of visits by senior leaders and ministers, and called for better crowd management and more visible policing to prevent incidents of theft and ensure safety.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Person affected | Rajesh Mandal (JDU leader) |
| Item | Gold chain, reported value ₹7 lakh |
| Place | Sakri Chowk, Kurhani block, Muzaffarpur |
| Event | Felicitation for Health Minister Nishant Kumar |
| Current status | Police probe under way; viral video being examined |
Police officials have not released further operational details publicly, but investigators said routine steps include recording statements from those present, analysing video and attempting to trace the chain through known local buyers or pawn channels. Local traders and jewellers said it is common for stolen ornaments to be offered for sale or pledging, though higher-value items are often melted down or broken up quickly to avoid detection.
The theft has also prompted discussion among party workers about event protocols. Organisers of political receptions and rallies in Muzaffarpur are likely to face renewed calls to coordinate crowd control with police and to ensure safekeeping measures for senior workers and guests who may carry valuables.
For residents, the episode is a reminder of the security risks at large public gatherings in the city, particularly during political visits that draw dense crowds. The police inquiry will determine whether the theft was carried out by local opportunists exploiting the squeeze of the crowd or by more organised operatives. Until then, party workers and attendees at future functions said they would be more cautious about personal belongings while attending such events.
