When the news that the teenager was burnt alive in Bihar had spread every nook and corner of the country, it has not only alarmed the officials on the escalating crimes, but also sent shock waves among crores of citizens.

While we boast of increasing technology and GDP growth, are we moving ahead neglecting the challenges of the nation is the question that has been reportedly discussed at chai shops and bus stops.

What crime did the 17-year-old boy Chintu Kumar do? Just became a witness in the gory incident of his mother’s rape case. And for that… he was allegedly set on fire by a gang of nine. Chintu succumbed to injuries…

The incident took place in broad day light on Sunday at Garobhiga village. According to the police, Chintu was expected to appear in the court on Monday as an eye witness in his mother’s rape case and he was immolated by the miscreants and five out of nine accused were among those who allegedly spoiled the chastity of Chintu’s mother way back in 2006.

The sources said Chintu’s mother told that her son came under serious threats by the rape accused. They reportedly warned Chintu of dire consequences if the case on them was not withdrawn.

While the officials are showing reluctance to respond on the incident, the opposition parties are crying foul on the chief minister Nitish Kumar over deteriorating law and order situation in the state.

Whenever such incidents come to light, it has become a routine task for the opposition parties to condemn and then cry foul, but at the end such incidents continue to hit headlines. Who should be blamed? The state government, or the policing or the union home ministry?   (Phani)