A large gathering of candidates travelling to appear for the Bihar Police Prohibition (Excise) Constable Examination led to tension and disruption at Patliputra Railway Station in Patna early Sunday, with authorities reporting stone-pelting, obstruction of train services and damage to property before police restored normalcy.
Officials said the situation escalated when hundreds of examination candidates assembled at the station seeking transportation to various examination centres across Bihar.
Heavy rush of exam candidates triggers disruption
According to railway and police officials, an unusually large number of candidates arrived at Patliputra Railway Station during the night and early morning hours. Authorities said some individuals stopped trains from departing and repeatedly pulled emergency chains. Officials also alleged that certain persons attempted to prevent willing passengers and candidates from boarding trains. Patna IG Jitendra Rana said around 200 to 250 students had gathered and were obstructing train movement when police reached the spot.
Stone-pelting reported during police intervention
Police, along with personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP) and district police, initially attempted to persuade the crowd to clear the tracks and allow trains to depart. According to officials, some members of the crowd then allegedly resorted to stone-pelting, prompting police action. Rana said police used force to prevent damage to life and property and subsequently dispersed the crowd. Some police personnel were reportedly hit by stones, though no serious injuries were reported.
Railways say special trains had been arranged
East Central Railway officials stated that extensive arrangements had been made in anticipation of the examination rush. According to railway authorities, 16 special trains were kept ready, including 10 by Danapur Division and six by Samastipur Divisionto facilitate travel for candidates. Officials said a special train for Katihar had been arranged in the early hours of the morning and additional services were announced through social media and public communication channels. Railway authorities maintained that sufficient arrangements were available and alleged that a section of individuals created disturbances despite the special services.
Situation normal, investigation underway
Patna District Magistrate Dr Thiyagarajan SM said the administration responded immediately after receiving information about the unrest. Authorities confirmed that train operations have resumed and the situation at the station is now peaceful.
What happens next?
Police and railway authorities are examining CCTV footage, photographs and video recordings to identify those involved in the disruption and stone-pelting. An FIR is expected to be registered by the railway police, and officials have stated that legal action will be taken against those found responsible for obstructing train services, damaging property or engaging in violence.
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