12 injured in Dalit family attack in Patna's Phulwari Sharif, two critical
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
At least 12 members of a Dalit family were injured — two of them critically, with stab wounds — in an alleged attack in the Ishopur locality of Phulwari Sharif, Patna, on Thursday, 22 October, police said. The assault reportedly broke out following a dispute during an idol immersion procession in the area.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to police, a group of around 25 people, allegedly led by Sanjay Yadav, entered the residence of Ramkumar Chaudhary in the Ishopur locality and attacked family members with sticks, clubs, and knives. The assault left multiple people wounded across age groups, including women.
The injured were identified as Aman, Riya Kumari, Bahadur Chaudhary, Lalmuni Devi, Pankaj Chaudhary, Ankit, Aarti Devi, Ajay Chaudhary, Deepak, and Anil, who were taken to hospitals for treatment. Ramkumar Chaudhary and Pankaj Kumar sustained the most severe injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS, Patna, where their condition is reported to be critical.
Police Personnel Also Allegedly Attacked
Officers from the nearby Ishopur police outpost arrived at the scene after hearing the commotion and attempted to intervene, according to local residents. The assailants allegedly turned on the responding officers as well, leaving several police personnel injured. Additional forces were subsequently deployed and the situation was brought under control, police said.
A video purportedly showing the assault — including the use of knives on the street — has surfaced, though its authenticity and the complete sequence of events are yet to be established through an official investigation.
Background and Dispute
The victims alleged that the attack stems from a longstanding dispute between the two families and claimed that similar incidents had taken place in the past. However, the precise cause of the dispute and the circumstances leading to Thursday's violence have not been officially confirmed by police.
This comes amid ongoing concerns over caste-based violence in Bihar, where Dalit families have periodically reported targeted attacks in rural and semi-urban localities. The backdrop of a religious procession adds a communally sensitive dimension that investigators are examining carefully.
Detentions and Ongoing Investigation
Police have so far detained two people in connection with the incident. Efforts are underway to trace the remaining suspects. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the clash, the alleged attack on the Dalit family, and the reported assault on police personnel.
Tension continued to prevail in the Ishopur locality on Thursday evening, with enhanced police presence in the area. The injured remain under medical care as authorities pursue further legal action.