Patna: A road accident in Patna City triggered widespread protests on Friday after a youth was killed when he was allegedly hit by a speeding bus near Zero Mile, leading to violent protests, arson and clashes with police.
The incident occurred near the Pahari Pump House under the Agam Kuan police station area. According to police, the victim, identified as Manish Kumar, died on the spot after being struck by the bus. The driver allegedly fled immediately after the accident.
The victim’s death sparked outrage among local residents and family members, who gathered at the accident site and staged a protest demanding action.
Demonstrators blocked National Highway-30, severely disrupting traffic movement along the busy stretch. Protesters also burnt tyres and raised slogans, alleging that frequent accidents caused by speeding vehicles had made the area unsafe and that authorities had failed to implement adequate preventive measures.
As tensions escalated, the agitation turned violent. The enraged crowd allegedly set the bus involved in the accident on fire and torched three police vehicles. The violence created panic in the area and disrupted normal life for several hours.
Police teams rushed to the spot and attempted to pacify the protesters. However, the situation remained tense for some time, prompting the deployment of additional security personnel to restore law and order. Clashes were also reported between protesters and police during efforts to disperse the crowd and clear the highway blockade.
Journalists covering the protest also reportedly were attacked. According to reports, some media personnel were also assaulted by members of the crowd while reporting on the unfolding developments.
Police have launched separate investigations into the fatal road accident and the subsequent incidents of arson and vandalism.
Officials said CCTV footage, mobile phone recordings and other evidence are being examined to identify those responsible for setting vehicles ablaze, damaging public property and attacking police personnel. Appropriate legal action will be taken against those found involved, police said.
Security has been tightened in the area to prevent any further disturbance. Meanwhile, the victim’s body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and his family has been informed.
(IANS)
