The Bihar Bandh called by student organizations in Patna on Saturday resulted in violent clashes between protesters and police at various locations. Incidents included stone-pelting, police lathi-charges, and vandalism, with similar protests occurring in other districts across the state. Demonstrators gathered near Gandhi Maidan to support the shutdown, citing concerns over an alleged NEET paper leak, police actions against students, and calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Tensions escalated near Ramghulam Chowk as protesters and police faced off, leading to stone-pelting by some protesters. Police responded with a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd, causing panic in the area and reports of vandalized vehicles. In a show of protest, some demonstrators climbed mobile towers, prompting authorities to enhance security measures. Police cleared protesters from various parts of the city and increased personnel in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation.
Adding a political aspect, Tej Pratap Yadav joined the protest at Gandhi Maidan with the national flag in support of the Bihar Bandh. The shutdown, organized by student groups like the All India Students Association (AISA) and Rashtriya Yuva Andolan (RYA), demanded action on the NEET paper leak, examination system reforms, and an investigation into alleged police misconduct against students. In Lakhisarai, a student-led protest turned violent, leading to a lathi-charge by police to restore order and address vandalism.
