Two Student Leaders Arrested for Disrupting Patna University Inauguration
In a significant development, police in Patna have arrested two individuals for allegedly orchestrating a student protest that disrupted the inauguration of Patna University's new administrative and academic building, specifically the Faculty of Arts. The incident occurred on March 30 under the jurisdiction of the Pirbahore police station area.
Protest Details and Arrests
The protest took place in the presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, leading to violent clashes that resulted in injuries to several police personnel and a magistrate. Those arrested have been identified as Anurag Kumar, a former president of the Patna University Students' Union (PUSU), who was apprehended from Naubatpur, and Mohammad Ehsanullah, a current university counsellor, arrested from Iqbal Hostel at Patna College on Ashok Rajpath. Both individuals have been sent to judicial custody following their arrests.
Police Account and Charges
According to police reports, the students involved in the protest raised slogans against the state government, obstructed police duties, and misbehaved with officers, which escalated into scuffles. Town DSP Rajesh Ranjan stated that six students, including current PUSU president Shantanu Shekhar, have been named as accused in the case, with Shekhar currently absconding. A case has also been registered against approximately 30 unidentified students, and raids are ongoing to apprehend the remaining accused, Ranjan confirmed, noting that two arrests have been made so far.
Complaint and Motivations
The complaint was filed by block panchayati raj officer Virendra Chaudhary, who was on duty at the venue. He alleged that around 2:30 PM, a group of 15 to 20 students arrived at the site, created a disturbance, and attempted to disrupt law and order. Police investigations revealed that the students were upset due to not receiving invitations to the inauguration, along with the omission of the vice-chancellor's name on the plaque unveiled during the ceremony.
Impact and Ongoing Investigations
The protest has highlighted tensions within the university community, with authorities emphasizing the need to maintain order during official events. The injuries sustained by police and a magistrate underscore the severity of the clashes, prompting a thorough investigation. As the situation unfolds, further arrests are expected as police continue their efforts to address the disruption and ensure accountability among those involved.
