Patna Police at Patna University campus
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Preparations for the Students’ Union elections (PUSU) at Patna University have gathered pace, with rivalry among student organisations intensifying and tension gripping the campus. To ensure that the polls are conducted peacefully and fairly, the police administration has been placed on high alert. Amid heightened vigilance, Patna Police carried out a major late-night operation on Wednesday, arresting eight students.
Acting on complaints from various university hostels and considering the sensitivity surrounding the elections, a large-scale raid was conducted under the leadership of the City Superintendent of Police (Central). Police teams from Pirbahor, Gandhi Maidan, Kadam Kuan, Buddha Colony and Kotwali police stations jointly took part in the operation. The sudden nighttime action triggered panic across the hostels.
During the raid at Minto Hostel, the police arrested eight students. According to officials, all were found under the influence of alcohol, a fact later confirmed through medical examination at the police station. Some students attempted to flee upon the arrival of the police, but were apprehended on the spot and taken into custody.
One of the arrested accused, Sahil Kumar alias Vishnu, has a criminal antecedent. Police said he was previously named in a bombing incident at the Science College Hostel. The arrested youths are also alleged to be linked to a bomb case registered at Pirbahor police station, in which provisions of the Explosives Act have been invoked. These aspects are being investigated thoroughly.
The police administration stated that continuous surveillance is being maintained across the university campus and adjoining areas in view of the elections, and additional force will be deployed if required. Students have been urged to participate in the electoral process peacefully and not to fall prey to provocation. Interrogation of the arrested accused is currently underway.
City Superintendent of Police (Central) Bhanu Pratap Singh said that no anti-social activity would be tolerated during the Students’ Union elections. “Eight people have been arrested, one of whom has prior criminal cases registered against him. Legal action is being taken against all,” he said, adding that those attempting to disturb the election atmosphere would face strict action.
Ensuring a peaceful conduct of the Students’ Union elections remains the administration’s top priority, and stringent action will be taken against any illegal activity. Further legal proceedings in the case are underway.
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