BJP MLA Shyam Babu Claims He Could Have Been Killed During Patna Protest, Says Attackers Were "Goons, Not Students"
Patna: The political atmosphere in Bihar has intensified after BJP MLA Shyam Babu claimed that his life was in danger during the student protest held in Patna on Wednesday. Addressing the Bihar Legislative Assembly, the BJP legislator alleged that he could have been killed in the violence that broke out during the demonstration. He further claimed that those who attacked him were not students but "goons" and anti-social elements who had infiltrated the protest.
MLA Narrates the Incident in the Assembly
Speaking in the Assembly, Shyam Babu said he was on his way to attend the House proceedings when a large crowd surrounded his vehicle. According to him, the mob pelted stones at his car, creating panic and chaos. He alleged that the situation became so dangerous that he had to take shelter inside a nearby shop to save his life.
The BJP MLA stated that had he failed to escape in time, the incident could have turned fatal. He urged the government to conduct a fair and thorough investigation into the attack, describing it as a serious threat to democratic institutions and the safety of elected representatives.
"They Were Not Students"
Shyam Babu asserted that the people involved in the violence were not genuine students. He alleged that anti-social elements and politically motivated individuals had hijacked the protest to create unrest and violence.
According to the MLA, real students express their demands peacefully, whereas the attackers deliberately targeted public representatives, police personnel, and government property. He claimed that the violence appeared to be pre-planned and aimed at creating fear and instability.
Heated Exchange in the Assembly
The MLA's remarks triggered a sharp confrontation between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition in the Assembly. Opposition legislators objected to his statements, accusing the BJP of attempting to malign the student movement.
The disagreement led to a noisy exchange between members of both sides, briefly disrupting the proceedings of the House.
Why Were Students Protesting?
The protest in Patna was organized by several student organizations demanding action over the alleged NEET paper leak and reforms in the education system. The protesters also raised demands for greater transparency in examinations and sought the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
As the demonstration progressed, clashes reportedly broke out between protesters and police, leading to incidents of stone-pelting, police action, and widespread disruption in parts of the city.
Several People Injured
The violence reportedly left several police personnel, journalists, and protesters injured. In response to the unrest, the administration deployed additional police forces and security personnel to restore law and order.
Security was tightened in sensitive areas of Patna, while district administrations across Bihar were instructed to remain vigilant in view of the situation.
Political Blame Game Intensifies
The incident has sparked a fresh political confrontation in Bihar. BJP leaders have strongly condemned the attack and demanded strict action against those responsible.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have accused the government of trying to suppress the voices of protesting students and divert attention from issues related to the education system. They argue that the allegations are politically motivated and intended to discredit the protest movement.
Political observers believe the incident is likely to remain a major issue during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, with both the ruling alliance and the opposition expected to continue trading accusations.
Police Investigation Underway
Patna Police have launched an investigation into the incident by examining CCTV footage and videos recorded during the protest. Officials said efforts are underway to identify those involved in the violence and assured that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible.
The police have also appealed to the public to maintain peace and avoid spreading rumors while the investigation continues.
The violence during the student protest in Patna has significantly escalated political tensions in Bihar. BJP MLA Shyam Babu's claim that he "could have been killed" and his allegation that the attackers were "goons, not students" have added a new dimension to the controversy. While the ruling party has demanded stringent action against the perpetrators, the opposition has dismissed the allegations as political rhetoric. The findings of the ongoing police investigation are now expected to play a crucial role in determining the facts surrounding the incident.
