Seizure of Radioactive Material in Bihar Raises Concerns Over India’s Nuclear Safety


Gopalganj: Authorities in Bihar’s Gopalganj district arrested three individuals and confiscated 50 grams of Californium, a highly dangerous radioactive substance, spotlighting serious deficiencies in India’s management of radioactive materials.



According to Kashmir Media Service, the seizure occurred in the Balthari area under Kuchaikot Police Station following a tip-off. The incident, which involved the recovery of a substance used in various critical applications including cancer treatment and nuclear reactors, underscores ongoing issues with the illegal trade and security of hazardous materials in India. The local police have engaged the Department of Atomic Energy and forensic experts to analyze the material.



This event adds to a series of concerns about the security of radioactive substances in India, casting doubt on the nation’s ability to safeguard its nuclear resources. Recurrent incidents of theft and unauthorized possession of such materials highlight significant lapses in regulatory and security frameworks, posing threats not only domestically but also globally.