Katihar/Patna: Authorities in Bihar have imposed a 24-hour suspension of internet and social media services across Katihar city following violent clashes that erupted during a Muharram procession on Sunday, leaving several police personnel and civilians injured.
Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, Additional Chief Secretary of the state Home Department, confirmed the shutdown on Monday and said the situation was under control in all districts. “District administrations have been directed to remain vigilant. Sporadic incidents during Pahalam are being closely monitored, and additional forces have been deployed wherever necessary,” he said.
The violence broke out in the Naya Tola area under Nagar police station when stone-pelting reportedly began between two groups amid the procession, leading to widespread panic. At least two dozen people sustained injuries, including several policemen, and multiple vehicles were vandalised. Houses in the locality were also targeted as tensions escalated.
Video footage circulating before the internet ban shows groups of men wielding sticks, hurling stones, and damaging parked vehicles. Local authorities, including the Deputy Superintendent of Police and Superintendent of Police, as well as the Nagar MLA, have been stationed in the area to oversee the situation and restore calm.
Police have confirmed that arrests have been made in connection with the violence, while the injured have been admitted to local hospitals. Investigations into the cause of the clashes and the identities of those involved are ongoing.
The unrest in Katihar follows other incidents of violence during Muharram in parts of Bihar, including reports of an assistant sub-inspector being stabbed in Darbhanga.
