Khan Sir coaching centre attack: Patna students fear exam prep hit
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Students preparing for competitive exams in Patna's Musallahpur Haat area voiced deep anxiety on Wednesday, 3 June, a day after a violent clash involving alleged stone-pelting, vandalism and gunfire at educator Khan Sir's coaching institute. The aspirants warned that an indefinite shutdown of the centre would derail their preparation schedules in one of Bihar's busiest coaching hubs.
What happened at Musallahpur Haat
Tension gripped the densely populated education hub late on Tuesday night after a dispute between students linked to Khan Classes and the neighbouring Gyan Bindu Coaching Centre escalated into a large-scale confrontation. According to a preliminary investigation, groups gathered near Khan Classes and allegedly hurled stones at each other, while shots were also reportedly fired. A security guard posted at Khan Classes sustained a head injury and was hospitalised; the institute's banner was torn down during the disturbance.
Students fear academic disruption
Speaking to reporters, a student identified as Mayank Yadav said, 'The most important thing is that educational institutions should never be attacked. In fact, no one should be subjected to such attacks, but an attack on an educational institution is particularly damaging as it tarnishes the image of the entire state of Bihar.' He added, 'It will affect us. We are preparing for exams, and now the coaching centre will be closed for god knows how many days. This will significantly affect our studies too.'
Another aspirant, Ajay Kumar, recalled hearing a loud sound around 10:20 pm on Tuesday while on the terrace of his rented room. 'I heard a loud sound that seemed like a gunshot, although I wasn't sure what it was. Later, when I was watching the news, I got to know that the coaching centre was attacked. This should not have happened,' he said.
Police response and cross-FIRs
Senior police officials, including Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K. Sharma, reached the spot with multiple teams to restore order. Kadamkuan police station SHO Janmejay Kumar said written complaints have been received from both sides. Representatives of Khan Classes have alleged that individuals from the rival side opened fire, while Gyan Bindu Coaching Centre has levelled identical charges against persons linked to Khan Classes. Police said conclusions will be drawn only after examination of evidence and witness statements.
Khan Sir's allegations
Speaking after the incident, Khan Sir claimed the attack was linked to the rising popularity of his institute and its low-cost model, arguing that quality education should remain accessible to economically weaker students. He alleged that attackers vandalised the office and fired shots, adding that CCTV footage has been handed over to investigators and that his security guard has identified some of the alleged attackers as persons associated with a nearby coaching centre. Khan Sir has also called for enhanced security arrangements at the campus.
What happens next
With cross-complaints filed and investigators examining CCTV footage, action will hinge on forensic verification of the gunfire claims. For thousands of UPSC, BPSC and SSC aspirants who anchor their preparation around the Musallahpur Haat ecosystem, the immediate worry remains how long classes stay suspended.