In a major reshuffle, the Bihar government on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) transferred 17 senior IPS officers, including SPs of Bhojpur and Siwan, where police action had triggered controversies.

According to a circular issued by the State Home Department, the government has transferred Siwan Superintendent of Police (SP) Pooran Kumar Jha.

Mr. Jha, under whose command an AK-47 rifle was allegedly used during a student protest in Siwan on July 25, has been placed on the waiting list for a new posting.

Raj, the SP of Bhojpur, where the encounter of local activist Bharat Tiwari had triggered an outcry, has also been transferred.

While Hriday Kant has been made the SP of Nalanda, Bharat Soni has been appointed as the SP of Siwan.

Awadesh Dikshit became the SP of Bhojpur district, according to the circular.

Published - August 18, 2026 05:51 pm IST