Bihar protests: Clashes, gunshots reported as students injured amid NEET exam leak row

Protests against the alleged NEET exam paper leak turned violent across Bihar on Saturday, with clashes between police and demonstrators erupting and gunshots reported in Siwan. Three students sustained injuries in Siwan, and officials are investigating whether police firing was the cause.

The statewide shutdown, or 'Bihar Bandh,' was called by the All India Students Association (AISA) and other left-wing student organizations. Protesters in Patna were seen pelting stones, demanding action over the alleged leak and previous police actions.

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Police fired in self-defence after some anti-socials, mixed with protesters, and fired on police at JP Chowk... We are yet to ascertain whether those injured were hit by bullets from police firing or from the protestors as firing took place from both sides.

In response to the violence, the state home department imposed a partial internet ban until Sunday afternoon, restricting access to social media platforms. The order cited concerns that certain online posts could "disturb public order and peace" and that the "misuse of social networking sites and instant messaging services is likely to be detrimental to the peace and tranquillity in Siwan district."

Siwan's Superintendent of Police, Puran Kumar Jha, confirmed the injuries. He stated that police fired in self-defense after "anti-socials, mixed with protesters, and fired on police at JP Chowk." Jha added that it is yet to be ascertained whether the injured were hit by police bullets or those fired by protesters, as firing occurred from both sides.

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It is felt that misuse of social networking sites and instant messaging services is likely to be detrimental to the peace and tranquillity in Siwan district.