Daijiworld Media Network - Patna
Patna, Jul 24: The Bihar government has intensified security measures in the wake of recent incidents of violence and unrest, imposing temporary internet restrictions in parts of Muzaffarpur while stepping up investigations into clashes that erupted during a student protest in Jehanabad.
On the recommendation of the Muzaffarpur district administration, the state Home Department has suspended access to internet-based social media and messaging services in the Town-1 and Town-2 police subdivisions to prevent the spread of rumours and inflammatory content.
According to the order issued by the Special Branch of the Home Department, the restrictions came into effect at 12.30 p.m. on July 24 and will remain in force until 10 a.m. on July 26.
The decision followed a report submitted by the District Magistrate and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), who warned that anti-social elements could misuse social media platforms to circulate misleading, objectionable or provocative material capable of disturbing public order.
Under the temporary restrictions, access to nearly 24 social media and messaging platforms, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp and Instagram, has been suspended. The sharing of messages, photographs, videos and other digital content through these platforms will remain blocked during the notified period.
The Home Department clarified that internet services required for authorised government functions and essential administrative work would continue without interruption.
Officials said the move was aimed at preventing the spread of rumours and maintaining peace, urging the public to refrain from sharing unverified information.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police (Magadh Range) Vikas Vaibhav visited Jehanabad to assess the situation after large-scale violence during a student demonstration, in which protesters allegedly vandalised public property and attacked the District Magistrate's residence.
The senior officer inspected the affected areas and reviewed security arrangements with district police officials.
Addressing the media, Vaibhav said that while peaceful demonstrations are protected under democratic principles, acts of violence, vandalism and damage to public property would not be tolerated.
He said several police personnel were injured during the clashes and that officers had to fire multiple rounds in the air to disperse the crowd after the situation turned violent.
Police have arrested 15 people in connection with the incident so far, while efforts are underway to identify other suspects using CCTV footage, video recordings and other available evidence.
The IG said strict legal action would be taken against all those found responsible for instigating violence, damaging government property or disrupting law and order.