Political tensions rose in Bihar on Saturday after Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) National President Tej Pratap Yadav claimed that he was detained by the police in Patna while extending support to students protesting in the city. His detention came amid large-scale demonstrations linked to the NEET paper leak controversy and recent police action against student protesters.
Tej Pratap Yadav voices support for students
Speaking to reporters during his detention, Tej Pratap Yadav strongly defended the students and said their demands deserved immediate attention from the government.
He said the students were fighting for a genuine cause and insisted that the government should respond to their concerns instead of ignoring them. Expressing solidarity with the youth, Yadav declared that he stood firmly with the protesting students and was even prepared to sacrifice his life for them.
According to him, the issues raised by students should be treated seriously because they directly affect the future of young people across the country.
Statewide shutdown turns violent in Patna
The detention took place as Bihar witnessed a statewide shutdown called by several opposition parties and social organisations. The bandh was organised to protest the alleged NEET paper leak and the recent police action against student agitators.
The demonstrations turned violent in parts of Patna when clashes broke out between protesters and law enforcement personnel.
Protesters demand accountability
One of the main demands raised during the protests was the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Protesters argued that accountability was necessary following the controversy over alleged examination irregularities.
Pradhan later stepped down after the continuing student protests over the NEET paper leak.
Reacting to the resignation, Tej Pratap Yadav said sweets should be distributed at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office. He remarked that the resignation had come much later than it should have. However, he also said that removing the minister alone would not solve the deeper problems being faced by students and young people.