In a dramatic turn of events during the Bharat Bandh in Gopalganj, Bihar, a mob attempted to set a school bus, carrying several children, ablaze. The incident unfolded as the bandh was called by certain groups protesting a recent Supreme Court decision on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs).
The chaotic scene was brought under control by the timely intervention of local police and district officials. Visuals captured the yellow school bus surrounded by an agitated crowd wielding sticks, with one individual seen setting a tyre on fire directly underneath the bus. Scattered burning tyres were also visible on the road, adding to the perilous situation.
According to Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Swarn Prabhat, a high alert was issued and a significant police force, along with magistrates, was deployed across the town in response to the Bharat Bandh. The police have utilized drone cameras to identify troublemakers, and FIRs are being filed against those responsible. The police chief confirmed that legal action would be taken against individuals involved in the attack on the bus.
Despite the tense situation, the Bharat Bandh received a mixed response in Gopalganj. While some vehicles continued to operate, disruptions were reported on National Highway 27 and railway tracks, with protests affecting normalcy in the area.
The Bharat Bandh was organized by various Dalit organizations in reaction to a recent Supreme Court ruling perceived as diminishing the framework established in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, which addressed reservation policies in India.
Sources By Agencies
