The demand to reopen the Itadhi railway crossing in Bihar’s Buxar district has escalated into a significant public movement. An indefinite sit-in protest, which commenced on July 13, entered its fifth day on Saturday. The situation intensified when protesters tried to march towards the railway tracks for a rail blockade.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and local administration, anticipating the move, deployed heavy security to prevent the demonstrators from reaching the tracks. A brief confrontation occurred, leading to the use of mild force by the police to disperse the crowd, causing tension in the area. Senior officials intervened later, convincing the protesters to return to the designated protest site to ensure uninterrupted train services.
Hundreds of residents gathered at the protest venue early Saturday, carrying the Tricolour, banners, and placards, demanding the reopening of the railway crossing. Slogans against the railway administration echoed in the area, with protesters urging the authorities to address the hardships faced by local residents.
District convener Saroj Rajbhar, leading the agitation, emphasized that the movement reflected the collective voice of thousands of people. He criticized the railway authorities and district administration for not taking concrete steps to resolve the issue despite peaceful demonstrations. The closure of the railway crossing has severely disrupted daily life, affecting patients, schoolchildren, farmers, and the general public.
