Tension briefly rose in Siwan during the ‘Bihar Bandh’ due to an altercation between protesters and police over road blockages. Superintendent of Police Puran Kumar Jha intervened, calming the situation by persuading protesters to continue their demonstration peacefully. Supporters marched through Siwan, attempting to disrupt traffic and close markets.
The police advised protesters against blocking roads completely, emphasizing the inconvenience to commuters and emergency services. Despite allegations from protesters, police maintained that peaceful protests were allowed but not disruptions to public life. Additional police were deployed as the situation escalated.
SP Puran Kumar Jha personally managed the situation, engaging with protesters to guide them along a designated route. The crowd dispersed peacefully after discussions, restoring normalcy in the area. Extensive security measures were in place throughout Siwan during the bandh.
Heavy police presence was observed at key points like intersections, the railway station, and bus stands. Police patrols were active to prevent any untoward incidents and uphold law and order. The law-and-order situation in Siwan was under control, with officials urging residents to ignore social media rumors.
Authorities emphasized the right to peaceful protests while urging demonstrators to ensure public convenience and essential services are not disrupted. A student in Siwan made a symbolic protest by dressing as a cockroach. The Bihar Bandh impact extended to other districts like Gaya, where protesters demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
In Madhepura, police detained students during demonstrations for public order maintenance. Flag marches were conducted in Jehanabad and Patna to reassure residents. Security personnel were vigilant to prevent disturbances. Authorities reiterated the permission for peaceful protests but warned against violence or obstruction of public services.
