The Bihar administration has increased security measures in response to recent incidents of unrest and violence across the state. The Home Department has temporarily suspended internet services in parts of Muzaffarpur to curb the spread of rumors. Additionally, senior police officials have assessed the law-and-order situation in Jehanabad following violence during a student protest.
Acting on recommendations from the Muzaffarpur district administration, the Home Department has ordered a temporary halt to internet-based social media and messaging services in specific police sub-divisions. The restrictions will be enforced from 12:30 p.m. on July 24 until 10:00 a.m. on July 26, as per the order issued by the Special Branch of the Home Department.
The decision to suspend internet services was made due to concerns raised by the District Magistrate and the Senior Superintendent of Police about the potential misuse of social media platforms by anti-social elements. Access to around 24 social networking and messaging platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, and Instagram, has been limited during this period.
To ensure essential public services remain unaffected, internet services necessary for authorized government and official administrative work have been exempted from the restrictions. The temporary measures aim to prevent the dissemination of rumors, provocative content, or material that could escalate communal tensions or disrupt law and order. Authorities have urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified information and to assist in maintaining peace.
Inspector General (IG) of the Magadh Range, Vikas Vaibhav, visited Jehanabad in the aftermath of violent incidents during a student protest. He inspected the affected areas and held discussions with district police officials. Vikas Vaibhav emphasized the right to peaceful protest while condemning violence, property damage, and the flouting of the law.
Following clashes that led to injuries among police personnel, the IG mentioned the arrest of 15 individuals in connection with the violence. Efforts are ongoing to identify other alleged participants through CCTV footage and other evidence. Strict legal action is promised against those found responsible for instigating violence, damaging public property, or disrupting law and order.
