Did BJP and Congress Supporters Clash in Bihar's Begusarai?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Clashes between political supporters can escalate quickly during election seasons.
- Police intervention is often necessary to restore order.
- Internal party conflicts can also impact the political landscape.
- Maintaining law and order is crucial for a democratic process.
- Increased vigilance is essential during nomination periods.
Patna, Oct 16 (NationPress) A wave of tension swept through Begusarai district in Bihar on Thursday as supporters from two political factions clashed near the Teghra subdivision office during the nomination phase for the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
The altercation ignited when Congress Youth State President Garibdas and Bihar Sports Minister Surendra Mehta, representing the NDA, arrived at the Bachhwara Assembly constituency office with their supporters to file nominations.
What initiated as a verbal exchange rapidly transformed into a physical brawl, with both factions trading kicks and punches.
In response to the escalating chaos, the police intervened with a lathi charge, managing to disperse the crowd following a brief yet intense struggle.
Many individuals suffered minor injuries, and the area was chaotic for a while before normalcy was reinstated.
Officials later ensured the nomination process resumed without further incident.
On the previous evening, a separate incident occurred when two factions of the Congress party clashed at the Patna airport.
Additionally, internal discord erupted within the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), led by Mukesh Sahani, as members from two factions exchanged blows during a press conference at Hotel Maurya in Patna.
These workers were embroiled in a dispute over ticket distribution.
Reports indicate that Mukesh Sahani requested 60 seats from the Grand Alliance, which was later negotiated down to 30 and then to 18 seats offered by the RJD, which he ultimately accepted. However, the Congress fielding candidates in several of Sahani’s desired constituencies sparked outrage among his supporters.
As tensions escalated, the press conference was abruptly cancelled, and Mukesh Sahani is now expected to address the media at 4 p.m., likely unveiling a significant political announcement.
The two incidents—one involving rival party supporters in Begusarai and the other internal strife within the VIP in Patna—have raised alarms regarding law and order during the nomination period in Bihar.
Authorities have ramped up vigilance around nomination centers to avert any further clashes.