Chhapra: Tensions escalated in Chhapra on Tuesday after a violent confrontation between supporters of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), resulting in the death of a young man and leaving two others seriously injured. The deceased has been identified as Chandan Rai, while the injured, Guddu Rai and Manoj Rai, are currently receiving treatment at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH). One of the injured is reported to be in a coma.
The altercation has heightened tensions in the area, leading to public unrest as locals demand the arrest of those responsible. Superintendent of Police Gaurav Mangala has taken control of the situation, with the entire area now resembling a police camp. To mitigate further unrest, the district administration has suspended internet services in Chhapra for two days.
Chapra Nagar Police Station Officer Ashwini Tiwari has been removed from duty following the incident. A formal complaint regarding the shooting and murder has been lodged at the local police station.
In response to the violence, a significant security presence, including personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and local police, has been deployed to maintain order. Authorities report that the situation is currently stable.
RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav condemned the violence, stating, “There should be no place for violence in elections. Some individuals resort to such actions out of fear of defeat, but the administration is doing its job.” His sister, Rohini Acharya, accused BJP supporters of inciting the violence, claiming, “The people of BJP are scared. Democracy is being murdered… FIR should be lodged against BJP goons.”
The incident occurred near Telpa Bhikhari Chowk in the Mufassil police station area. SP Gaurav Mangala explained that the clash stemmed from altercations between BJP and RJD supporters during the voting process the previous day. Further violence erupted today as a continuation of those conflicts. Saran District Magistrate Aman Sameer confirmed the fatality and reported that several rounds were fired during the incident. Tensions had already been high during the elections, particularly when Rohini Acharya visited polling booths 318-319, leading to stone-pelting between the two groups.
The situation remains under close observation by local authorities as efforts continue to restore peace and order in the area.
