350 Arrested Across Five Districts Including Patna, Chhapra and Sitamarhi, Cases Registered Against Several Others
Patna: The Bihar Police have launched a major crackdown on those allegedly involved in violence, vandalism, and arson during the Bihar Bandh called by student organizations over the NEET paper leak and alleged examination irregularities. According to officials, around 350 people have been arrested so far from five districts, including Patna, Chhapra, and Sitamarhi. In addition, FIRs have been registered against several named and unidentified individuals.
Police officials said that no one responsible for disturbing law and order would be spared. Suspects are being identified through CCTV footage, drone surveillance, mobile phone videos, and clips circulating on social media. Those found damaging public property, attacking police personnel, or disrupting public life will face strict legal action.
Violence Reported in Several Districts During the Bandh
The Bihar Bandh, organized by various student groups, had a visible impact across several districts of the state. While many protests remained peaceful, demonstrations in some areas turned violent. Protesters reportedly blocked roads, burned tires, damaged government and private property, and clashed with police at multiple locations.
In Patna, traffic was severely disrupted on several major roads. At some places, confrontations between protesters and police led to stone-pelting and scuffles, prompting authorities to deploy additional security forces to restore order.
Major Action in Five Districts
The police have focused their operation primarily on five districts, including Patna, Chhapra, and Sitamarhi, where the highest number of violent incidents were reported. Raids are being conducted based on CCTV footage and video evidence to identify and arrest those involved.
According to police, those arrested face charges ranging from damaging public property and attacking police personnel to obstructing traffic and disturbing public peace.
More Than 350 Arrested
State police officials confirmed that approximately 350 people have been arrested so far, while efforts are underway to apprehend additional suspects. Police teams are conducting raids at the residences of individuals who have already been identified.
Officials indicated that the number of arrests could rise further as investigators continue examining video footage and other digital evidence.
FIRs Registered Against Several Individuals
Alongside the arrests, police have registered multiple criminal cases at various police stations. Several individuals have been named in the FIRs, while many others have been booked as unidentified accused.
Authorities said that anyone identified later through video footage or other evidence will also face legal action.
CCTV Footage and Social Media Videos Being Used for Identification
Investigating agencies are reviewing CCTV footage from major intersections and public places across affected cities. Videos recorded by local residents, drone footage, and clips circulating on social media are also being examined to identify those involved in the violence.
Officials said digital evidence is playing a key role in tracing suspects and strengthening criminal cases.
Public Property Damaged
Several incidents of road blockades, arson, and vandalism were reported during the Bihar Bandh. Government vehicles were damaged in some areas, while traffic remained disrupted at several locations for hours.
The administration is currently assessing the extent of the damage. Officials stated that those found responsible for damaging public property may also be required to compensate for the losses through legal proceedings.
Public Faced Significant Inconvenience
The bandh and subsequent violence caused widespread inconvenience to the public. Bus services were disrupted in several districts, commuters were forced to take alternative routes, and many office-goers remained stuck in traffic jams for hours.
Schools, colleges, and commercial establishments were also affected, with attendance remaining low in many educational institutions due to security concerns.
Police Issue Strong Warning
Senior police officials emphasized that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, violence, arson, vandalism, and taking the law into one's own hands will not be tolerated.
The police have urged citizens not to believe rumors or share inflammatory and misleading content on social media. Authorities warned that strict legal action will continue against anyone attempting to disrupt law and order.
Security Tightened Across Sensitive Areas
Following the incidents, additional police forces have been deployed in sensitive districts. Security has been strengthened around government offices, railway stations, bus terminals, and other important public places.
Police have also been conducting flag marches to reassure residents and prevent any further untoward incidents.
Political Reactions Intensify
The violence during the Bihar Bandh has also triggered political reactions. Leaders of the ruling alliance condemned the incidents of violence and demanded strict action against those responsible. Opposition parties, meanwhile, questioned the government's handling of the student protests and the police response.
The administration has maintained that every case will be investigated impartially and that action will be taken strictly in accordance with the law.
Following the violence and vandalism during the Bihar Bandh over the NEET paper leak issue, Bihar Police have intensified their crackdown across the state. Around 350 people have been arrested from five districts, including Patna, Chhapra, and Sitamarhi, while investigations continue to identify additional suspects through CCTV footage, digital evidence, and social media videos. The administration has reiterated that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, those involved in violence, destruction of public property, and disruption of law and order will face strict legal consequences.
