Bihar Adopts ‘Zero Tolerance’ Approach to Crime: Minister Samrat Chaudhary Pushes STF Encounters, Actions Surge 300%

Patna: Under Bihar’s new Nitish Kumar government, Home Minister Samrat Chaudhary has adopted a “zero tolerance” stance against crime, emphasizing what officials describe as an “encounter theory” to deal with criminals. The strategy has led to a sharp rise in police encounters compared to 2024, signaling an aggressive approach toward law and order.

STF Encounters on the Rise

Data indicates that Bihar’s Special Task Force (STF) has significantly increased encounters since 2025. In 2024, the STF recorded only 8 encounters, while in 2025, this number surged to 29. These operations, conducted jointly with Delhi Police in several cases, involved firing on criminals, resulting in serious injuries and, in some cases, deaths. Notably, four gangsters from Bihar were killed in an operation in Rohini.

The current year, 2026, is still in its early months, yet media reports suggest that around 15 encounters have already occurred in January alone, including two fatalities and approximately 14 individuals injured by gunfire. Officials indicate that these early figures could rise further by year-end.

Political Controversy

Opposition leaders have raised concerns over the targeting of specific communities. Veteran RJD leader and legislator Bhai Virendra criticized the STF encounters, claiming, “Ram is being targeted while Rahim is being framed. The government seems to focus only on particular castes and religions.” His statement followed the high-profile encounter involving a criminal named Surya Don, reigniting debate on selective enforcement.

The Government’s Dilemma

The surge in criminal incidents has compelled the Bihar government to act decisively. In 2025 alone, the state recorded 2,556 murders, 2,025 reported rapes, and 174 robberies. Maintaining Nitish Kumar’s image of good governance has placed pressure on Home Minister Samrat Chaudhary to adopt stringent measures, including authorizing police encounters in extreme cases.

While the policy has drawn both praise and criticism, it highlights Bihar’s increasingly hardline stance on crime, aiming to restore public confidence in law and order amid rising criminal activity.