Tension erupted near Pothahi village on the Patna-Gaya National Highway (NH 22) after a speeding Scorpio ran over and killed an elderly man. The incident led to violent protests, resulting in an attack on a police team and the vandalism of a police vehicle.
The Incident
The deceased has been identified as 55-year-old Mithilesh Ravidas. The accident occurred when Ravidas was crossing the four-lane road to return to his village after watering his fields. A speeding Scorpio hit him near the Kebra police outpost , killing him on the spot. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene immediately after the accident.
Violent Protests And Clash With Police
Following the accident, local villagers gathered at the site, blocked the highway, and set fires in protest.
Attack On Police: When a police team from the Kebra OP arrived to manage the situation, they faced heavy resistance. Villagers pelted the officers with stones.
Vandalism: Out numbered by the mob, the police personnel were forced to retreat and abandon their vehicle. The agitated crowd subsequently vented their anger by vandaliing the police jeep.
Stabilisation: The situation was eventually brought under control only after police reinforcements arrived at the spot.
Villager Demands And Past Accidents
The protesters refused to clear the road, citing safety concerns. They claimed that two people had previously been killed in road accidents at the same spot. Consequently, the villagers demanded the immediate construction of an overbridge to prevent future fatalities.
Administrative Intervention And Resolution
Efforts by the Punpun Block Development Officer (BDO) and Circle Officer (CO) to pacify the crowd were initially unsuccessful. The road blockade continued for three hours.
Resolution: The blockade was finally lifted following an assurance from the District Magistrate (DM).
Post-Mortem: The police have taken custody of the body and sent it to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) for a post-mortem examination.