By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: During widespread demonstrations across the country over the issue of reservation, members of the Dalit community took to the streets in Patna, raising blue flags in areas such as Khoja Imli Mazar of Phulwari Sharif, Anisabad Golambar, Beur Mor, Ramakrishna Nagar Bypass, Sampatchak Bairiya, and Beldari Chak Gaurichak. The protests saw participation from multiple organisations, including Bhim Army and Rashtriya Janata Dal. However, the Bharat Bandh evoked mixed response in Patna district.
The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations has demanded that the government pass a new law on reservation and include it in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. In response to the Bharat Bandh, most schools in Phulwari Sharif, Janipur, Parsa Bazar, Sampatchak, Anisabad, Beur Police Colony, Ramakrishna Nagar, Sipara, and Jaganpura were closed as a precautionary measure. In Punpun, Phulwari MLA Gopal Ravidas led a demonstration blocking the Bihta-Sarmera State Highway-78.
Meanwhile, the police administration has implemented tight security measures across major locations. Despite the deployment of police forces at critical points, the bandh saw incidents of vandalism, including vehicles being damaged and banners torn near Khoja Imli. Protesters also clashed with passersby, leading to further chaos.
The bandh, organised under the leadership of RJD leader Dinesh Paswan, brought traffic to a standstill on the Anisabad Phulwari Sharif-Patna Phulwari National Highway 139. The Bihta-Sarmera-Patna highway was completely blocked at Gaurichak Beldari Chak by protesters led by RJD leader Dwarika Paswan, who set fires and burned tires on the road, causing long traffic jams and significant inconvenience to commuters.
Gurudev Shri Prem, National President of Bharatiya Lokhit Party, criticized the bandh, stating that his party does not support such actions, deeming them unjustified.
In anticipation of the Bharat Bandh called by SC-ST Samaj and Bhim Army, the Bihar Police Headquarters issued an alert to all districts, warning of potential law and order issues. The Patna district administration urged peaceful protests, with the DM cautioning that any use of force or disruption to public order would be met with strict action, including FIRs against violators.
