Patna: The Vice President is scheduled to visit Bihar on April 4, with preparations underway at the historic Bhitiharwa Gandhi Ashram in West Champaran, where the state administration has tightened security and accelerated arrangements ahead of the high-profile tour.
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan is expected to arrive at the site, which is closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha. In anticipation of the visit, senior officials conducted a detailed inspection of the ashram complex on Thursday, reviewing security protocols, infrastructure readiness, and logistical arrangements.
District Magistrate Tarunjot Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Shaurya Suman led the review, accompanied by other administrative officials. The team inspected the ashram premises, the museum hall and the guest house, and also assessed the proposed helipad site to ensure smooth movement during the Vice President’s visit.
Officials issued directions for urgent maintenance work across the campus, including cleaning and repainting of key structures. The DM also reviewed the condition of a theme park within the premises, where several shortcomings were identified. Local concerns were raised regarding non-functional solar lights and a defunct water fountain, prompting instructions for immediate repairs.
Parking arrangements at nearby educational institutions, including Kasturba Girls’ School and Kasturba Residential School, were also reviewed and ordered to be improved to manage expected visitor movement during the visit.
Security has been placed under heightened alert, with police and administrative units directed to maintain strict vigilance throughout the visit. Authorities said the focus remains on ensuring a smooth and incident-free programme given the presence of a constitutional dignitary and the sensitivity of the site.
The Bhitiharwa Gandhi Ashram holds significant historical importance as one of the centres of Gandhi’s early satyagraha work in 1917, when he mobilised farmers in Champaran against oppressive indigo cultivation practices. The ashram is also associated with Kasturba Gandhi’s social initiatives focused on women and child welfare.
Officials said the Vice President’s visit is expected to draw renewed attention to the site’s historical legacy and its continued relevance in India’s freedom movement narrative.
