A violent protest erupted at Patliputra Railway Station in Patna on Sunday as candidates appearing for the Bihar Police Prohibition Department examination expressed their anger over train arrangements. The situation quickly escalated into a chaotic scene of vandalism and stone-pelting, forcing the police to take stringent measures to restore order. The candidates, who were traveling to various examination centers, claimed that the railway authorities had failed to provide adequate transportation facilities, leading to significant delays and overcrowding.
Escalation of Violence and Vandalism
The protest began when a large number of candidates gathered at the station and started raising slogans against the railway administration. The frustration over the lack of sufficient trains soon turned into violence, while protesters targeted a special train that had been arranged specifically for the examination, causing extensive damage to its windows and internal fittings. The agitators also attempted to disrupt railway operations by blocking tracks and interfering with the signaling system. As the crowd grew more aggressive, they began pelting stones at the station premises and the security personnel deployed on-site.
Police Response and Injuries
Upon receiving reports of the escalating violence, senior police and administrative officials rushed to the spot. Despite initial attempts to pacify the crowd through dialogue, the situation remained out of control. To disperse the violent mob, the police were forced to use tear gas shells and resort to a lathi charge. In an effort to prevent further damage and ensure public safety, the police also conducted warning aerial firing. During the clash, several police personnel, including an Inspector General (IG), sustained injuries due to the stone-pelting. The injured officers were provided with medical assistance, and their conditions are reported to be stable.
Administrative Statement and Current Status
Patna District Magistrate Dr. Tyagarajan provided details regarding the incident, stating that the administration had received reports of unrest late at night, while he mentioned that while the administration had appealed for peace and cooperation, certain anti-social elements among the candidates were repeatedly pulling emergency chains and demanding additional special trains. The DM clarified that 2 special trains were already made available for the candidates. He further noted that some protesters even tried to stop other candidates who were willing to proceed to their examination centers. Following the police intervention, the situation has been brought under control. Security has been tightened in and around the Patliputra Railway Station, and all scheduled trains have departed. Railway operations have returned to normalcy, and the area remains under heavy police surveillance to prevent any further incidents.