Bombs hurled at Patna college after clash between 2 student groups turns violent

PATNA: A violent altercation between two student groups at B N College in Patna escalated into chaos on Tuesday afternoon when crude bombs were hurled on campus, disrupting examinations and leaving a student severely injured. The injured student, identified as Sujit Pandey, son of Dharmendra Pandey from Bhaluni Dham village in Rohtas district, was rushed to the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) for treatment.The incident took place around 12.45pm, while students were appearing for their Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) examination. According to eyewitnesses, a sudden explosion rocked the corridor of the examination block, sending students into a panic. Within minutes, a second bomb was hurled—this time reportedly striking a student after hitting the wall and the iron grill near the college gate."People were writing their papers when a loud blast rang through the corridor. The atmosphere turned chaotic, with students running in different directions. Just as we were being evacuated, another explosion occurred, hitting a student on the head," an eyewitness said.Soon after the blasts, students blocked the busy Ashok Rajpath road, raising slogans against the college administration. The protestors alleged administrative apathy, claiming repeated inaction against violent and disruptive elements on campus. The police later pacified the students and cleared the road. Pirbahore police, led by SHO Abdul Haleem, reached the college and launched an investigation. "Two crude bombs exploded during the exam. A forensic team has been called to collect samples, and CCTV footage from the campus is being scrutinised to identify those involved," the SHO said. He further added that no arrests have been made as yet.Initial investigation suggests the violence was rooted in a previous confrontation between hostel residents of the college. "This appears to be a continuation of a dispute between two student groups. A few days ago, a similar altercation had been pacified by police's intervention. Unfortunately, the situation escalated today due to the failure of the college administration to monitor student activities and prevent dangerous materials from being brought onto campus," the SHO said.College principal Rajkishore Prasad expressed concern over the repeated disturbances on the campus. "The blasts occurred at 12.45pm and 12.48pm. A student was injured. It is troubling that some students entered the examination hall without valid ID cards. Strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found involved," he said.