Violent clashes broke out between protesters and police at multiple locations in Patna on Saturday, 25 July, as a Bihar Bandh called by student organisations over the alleged NEET paper leak triggered widespread disruptions across the state. Stone-pelting, lathi-charges, and incidents of vandalism were reported in the capital, while protests spread to several other districts.

Clashes in Patna

Large numbers of students and demonstrators began assembling near Gandhi Maidan from the morning, raising slogans against the alleged NEET paper leak, demanding an inquiry into police action against students, and calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan — who has, according to reports, already resigned. Tensions peaked near Ramghulam Chowk, where a confrontation between protesters and security personnel turned volatile.

According to police, some protesters resorted to stone-pelting, prompting security forces to launch a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd. Several vehicles were reportedly vandalised during the unrest. In a dramatic escalation, some demonstrators climbed mobile towers, prompting authorities to further tighten security arrangements. Additional personnel were deployed around Gandhi Maidan, Ramghulam Chowk, Patna University, and adjoining localities.

Political Dimension

Tej Pratap Yadav arrived at Gandhi Maidan carrying the national flag in a show of solidarity with the shutdown, adding a visible political dimension to what had begun as a student-led agitation. The bandh was called by student bodies including the All India Students Association (AISA) and the Rashtriya Yuva Andolan (RYA), who demanded strict accountability over the NEET paper leak, systemic reforms in the examination process, and an independent inquiry into alleged police excesses against students.

Violence in Lakhisarai, Constable Injured

The unrest extended to Lakhisarai, where a student-led protest reportedly turned violent after some participants were accused of vandalising property and disrupting public order. Police conducted a lathi-charge to restore normalcy. During the operation, constable Varsha Kumari (Constable No. 396), deployed on duty, sustained injuries and was taken for medical treatment. Additional forces were subsequently deployed to stabilise the district. Authorities stated that while the demonstration had initially remained peaceful, it deteriorated after a section of participants allegedly began targeting property. Officials said efforts are underway to identify those responsible.

Protests Spread Across Bihar

Beyond Patna and Lakhisarai, the bandh drew protests in Gaya, Saharsa, Sasaram, Ara, and Chhapra. Demonstrators blocked roads and raised slogans at several intersections. Security was heightened at major junctions, railway stations, and bus terminals in Gaya. In Saharsa, protesters blocked traffic near Kachhari Chowk. In Chhapra, students staged a sit-in at Municipality Chowk, disrupting traffic for a period before police restored order.

Official Response

Authorities reiterated that peaceful protests are constitutionally protected but warned that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in violence, vandalism, or obstruction of government duties. Security remains heightened across sensitive districts as investigators work to identify those who allegedly instigated the violence. The Bihar Bandh reflects the deepening anger among students over the NEET controversy, which has triggered nationwide protests in recent weeks.