The Nalanda district administration and police conducted a large-scale flag march through Bihar Sharif on Friday evening in anticipation of the Bihar Bandh called for Saturday, 27 July over the alleged NEET paper leak. The security exercise was aimed at reinforcing law and order and reassuring residents ahead of the proposed shutdown.

Why the Bandh Was Called

The shutdown has been called to press two key demands: the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and stringent action against those allegedly responsible for the NEET paper leak. The controversy has triggered widespread protests across Bihar, with political groups intensifying pressure on the Centre for accountability.

The Flag March: Route and Participants

The march commenced from the Shram Kalyan Kendra grounds and wound through major roads, commercial markets, and sensitive localities across Bihar Sharif. A substantial contingent of police personnel, accompanied by official vehicles with sirens, participated in the exercise to signal the administration's preparedness.

The march was jointly led by Nalanda District Magistrate Udita Singh and Superintendent of Police Bharat Soni, who personally inspected security arrangements at key intersections and other sensitive points in the city. Senior officers including Deputy Superintendents of Police Ranjan Kumar, Ramdular Prasad, Rishabh Anand, Sanjay Kumar Jaiswal, Amarnath, and Shyam Kishore Ranjan, along with Sergeant Major Rajmani and Station House Officers Samrat Deepak, Ranjeet Kumar Rajak, and Shailesh Kumar Jha, were also in attendance.

What Officials Said

District Magistrate Udita Singh told reporters that comprehensive security arrangements had been put in place across the district. She confirmed that additional police personnel and executive magistrates had been deployed at sensitive locations to maintain law and order, and appealed to residents to preserve peace and communal harmony. She specifically urged citizens not to believe or circulate unverified rumours, particularly those spreading through social media.

Superintendent of Police Bharat Soni underscored that while peaceful protest remains a democratic right, no individual would be permitted to exploit a demonstration as cover for unlawful activity. He warned that strict action would follow any attempt to forcibly shut shops, block roads, or damage public or private property during the bandh.

Security Posture and What Comes Next

Officials issued directions to magistrates, police officers, and security personnel to remain on high alert and respond swiftly to any law-and-order situation. This comes amid heightened political activity across Bihar linked to the alleged NEET irregularities — a controversy that has drawn national attention and put the Union government on the defensive. Authorities have made clear that peaceful demonstrations will be permitted, but any disruption to public order will be dealt with firmly. The situation in Nalanda will be closely watched as the bandh unfolds on Saturday.