Bihar: Nalanda college protest turns violent, three policemen injured

Patna, June 18 (IANS) A protest demanding the establishment of a degree college in Nagarnausa, Nalanda district, turned violent on Thursday after clashes broke out between demonstrators and police during a road blockade.

The confrontation resulted in injuries to three police personnel, damage to government vehicles, and the arrest of ten people.

According to local residents, the demand for a degree college in Nagarnausa has been pending for several years.

On Thursday, a large number of students, parents and villagers gathered to press their demand and blocked a major road while raising slogans against the government and administration.

The demonstration initially remained peaceful but later escalated into a confrontation with security personnel. Eyewitnesses said some protesters began pelting stones and bricks at the police, leading to chaos at the protest site.

Several government vehicles were damaged, with windows shattered during the violence.

Anticipating a large gathering, the administration had deployed a substantial police force and arranged drone surveillance to monitor the protest. Despite these measures, the situation spiralled out of control.

Senior officials, including Hilsa ASP Kumari Shailaja and SDM Amit Kumar Patel, rushed to the spot after receiving information about the unrest.

As stone-pelting continued despite repeated appeals for calm, police fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and restore order. Protesters gradually retreated, allowing authorities to regain control of the area.

ASP Kumari Shailaja confirmed that three police personnel were injured during the clashes. She also stated that ten individuals have been arrested so far for allegedly obstructing government work and engaging in violence.

According to police officials, additional suspects are being identified through drone footage and video recordings collected during the protest. Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in the violence.

Following the incident, police conducted a flag march through Nagarnausa market, major intersections and other sensitive locations to prevent further disturbances. Traffic, disrupted by the blockade, has since been restored.

–IANS

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