The Times of India

Patna High Court granted bail to JD(U) leader Anant Singh in connection with the murder of a Jan Suraaj supporter. Singh, who won the Mokama assembly seat while in jail, was accused of orchestrating the killing during a clash on October 30. The DGP had previously stated the death was due to cardiac and respiratory failure, not a gunshot.

Bihar's political landscape is bracing itself as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar prepares to secure an unprecedented fifth term as the JD(U) national president, with nomination submissions expected on Thursday. Political insiders suggest he will go uncontested, paving the way for a smooth election on March 24.

In a strategic move to enhance law enforcement, Bihar's police department underwent a noteworthy leadership overhaul on Wednesday. Six police officers, including four from the IPS cadre, received new assignments.

The Bihar Industries Association (BIA) had a split response to the BERC's latest electricity tariff announcement. They appreciated the relief granted to specific consumer groups but voiced dissatisfaction regarding the absence of reductions in industrial tariffs, particularly with high KVA charges. There was a shared expectation that enhanced performance from power companies would translate into tangible benefits for industrial consumers.

In a heart-wrenching story from the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, a young tigress who wandered too close to human settlements has been discovered dead. Forest officials are investigating the possibility of illness or starvation as she was in the process of separating from her mother.

The RJD grapples with a critical situation regarding Dhaka MLA Faisal Rahman's absence from the Rajya Sabha elections, resulting in a significant loss for the opposition. Taking action against Rahman could jeopardize Tejashwi Yadav's role as Leader of Opposition, given that the party requires 25 seats for that status.

After a harrowing discovery, authorities rescued sixty-two bonded labourers from an illegal brick kiln in Gaya, shedding light on a hidden 30-year-old practice. This revelation has raised eyebrows among experts, who are questioning the local officials oversight, including the BLOs and revenue clerks.

To ensure a harmonious Eid celebration, Madhubani district has mobilized more than 800 officials to 432 key areas. High-ranking officers will be actively patrolling while undercover officers keep an eye out for any potential unrest. A dedicated control room remains operational around the clock, ready to tackle any issues or disperse rumors swiftly.

In a stirring ceremony at Danapur Cantonment, ex-servicemen from Bihar gathered to bid a heartfelt adieu to Major General Vikas Bhardwaj, the outgoing General Officer Commanding of the Jharkhand and Bihar Sub Area. Veterans paid tribute to his remarkable service and his dedicated efforts to uplift the welfare of veterans and families of fallen soldiers.

In a shocking turn of events in Asia village, Muzaffarpur, 60-year-old Jagatveer Rai was tragically killed by a gunshot wound amidst a violent confrontation between locals and law enforcement. Authorities reported that gunfire erupted from both sides as police moved to arrest a suspect under the Pocso Act.

In Patna, the battle for domestic gas supply rages on, as residents find themselves caught in a frustrating cycle of long wait times and unsatisfactory communication. Despite assurances from officials of improved inventory levels, many households still endure the annoyance of vendors evasive responses.

At a recent national symposium, the challenges associated with India's aging demographic took center stage, advocating for a societal shift towards honoring and protecting our elderly population. Meanwhile, agricultural specialists encouraged farmers to embrace innovative beekeeping techniques to boost their entrepreneurial ventures and financial stability.

On Wednesday, Patna became a hotspot for student activism as two spirited protests unfolded. The first group rallied in support of UGC's newly proposed anti-discrimination policies, making their way toward Raj Bhawan but were met with police barricades. Meanwhile, a separate gathering of BPSC teacher recruitment candidates voiced their frustrations over the prolonged delays of TRE 4.

In a bold move against corruption, Bihar police have begun an extensive operation against LPG black marketing, confiscating more than 400 cylinders and apprehending 21 suspects in various districts. Authorities have taken decisive action by sealing four restaurants in Patna caught misusing domestic cylinders, while ramping up inspections of dealers and food outlets.

The Kisan Mela 2026 in Bhagalpur wrapped up with a flourish, spearheaded by Bihar Agricultural University over an inspiring three-day celebration of agriculture innovation and farmer community. The focus was on elevating pulse and oilseed yields to bolster both food security and farmers' livelihoods.

In a tragic accident near Kulhariya village in Bhojpur district, a devastating crash involving a school van, a truck, and an autorickshaw resulted in injuries to at least 12 individuals, including eight young students aged between five and ten.

At a vibrant public rally, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar captured attention by placing a reassuring hand on Deputy CM Samrat Choudharys shoulder, proclaiming, 'From here on, we will all witness real progress.' This gesture has ignited discussions about Kumar's ambition in the national arena while positioning Choudhary, a prominent OBC leader, as a likely successor for the chief ministerial role.

In a notabledecision for residents, Bihar's electricity consumers can breathe easy as there will be no tariff increases for the upcoming 2026-27 financial year. The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) turned down any plans for hikes, ensuring stability for 2.22 crore households. Furthermore, while assessing the needs of power distribution companies, the commission has prioritized keeping consumer costs in check.

During a recent conference, Bihar's Planning and Development Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav underscored the importance of precise data for meeting Sustainable Development Goals. Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit echoed this sentiment, pointing to the need for dependable data to guide policies and the commitment to 'Leave No One Behind.

In a stunning turn of events, three Congress MLAs chose to abstain from the Rajya Sabha elections, ultimately sealing the fate of the Grand Alliance in Bihar. In response, state party president Rajesh Ram is set to compile a comprehensive report for the high command that will spotlight these pivotal abstentions.

Patliputra University celebrated its 8th anniversary with vibrant festivities, showcasing the incredible journey since separating from Magadh University. The institution reaffirmed its dedication to excellence in education and research while announcing its upcoming move to a state-of-the-art campus in Bakhtiyarpur. Significant advancements were highlighted, including the integration of NEP 2020 and the formation of essential academic and administrative frameworks.

In a remarkable achievement, Supriya Krishnan from Patna University has been awarded a prestigious ICSSR grant of Rs15 lakh for her groundbreaking two-year research project. Her study will delve into the Indian family structure as a vital cultural asset, examining how families in four districts of Bihar foster unity and navigate contemporary challenges.

In a proactive move, the West Champaran authorities are enhancing the security of Valmiki Tiger Reserve as summer's challenges loom. They are employing satellite surveillance along with on-the-ground patrols, executing controlled burns, and establishing fire breaks to prevent wildfires.

A tragic fire in Indore has led to the loss of eight lives, with six victims from Kishanganj. Authorities suspect that the blaze originated from an electric vehicle charging station, locking a family who was receiving cancer treatment inside. The situation worsened when gas cylinders exploded, forcing survivors to leap for their lives.

In a shocking turn of events, a bank manager in Ghaziabad, Abhishek Sharma, 34, lost his life to violence stemming from a leave dispute with a security guard. This heartbreaking incident has left his family in ruins, particularly his pregnant wife and young daughter, who are now grappling with an unimaginable loss.

Bihar police have made remarkable strides in the fight against illegal liquor, apprehending 7.41 lakh litres valued at a staggering Rs 60 crore by February 2026, marking an 18% rise in seizures. Coordinated operations across state lines resulted in multiple arrests, showcasing the widespread nature of this effort. To intensify prohibition measures, a specialized bureau has been established.

In a progressive move to enhance visitor experience, a state-of-the-art multi-level parking structure is taking shape at Takhat Sri Harimandirji Patna Sahib Gurdwara. This ambitious Rs 100 crore project, supported by the state government, will consist of six levels, efficiently accommodating approximately 500 cars and 50 heavy vehicles.

The defeat in the Rajya Sabha election has caused cracks in Bihar's Grand Alliance, with Congress members voicing their discontent. Complaints surfaced regarding the RJD's choice of an 'unpopular' candidate, resulting in a lack of participation and a subsequent loss.

The Bihar Congress is navigating a stormy political landscape as internal rifts grow and accusations fly post-Rajya Sabha elections. Frustrated leaders rallied against what they describe as the BJP's 'vote pilfering' after three MLAs opted out, inadvertently bolstering the ruling NDA's position.

In an exciting development for Gaya, plans are underway to relocate the district court to a spacious 25-acre site just south of Magadh University. The current court building, over a century old, has become dangerously overcrowded for its roster of more than 1,200 lawyers and 50 judicial staff members.

Longtime JD(U) stalwart K C Tyagi has officially wrapped up his 23-year journey with Nitish Kumar's party, opting not to renew his membership. Known as a key figure since the party's founding, Tyagi plans to meet with like-minded political allies on March 22 in New Delhi to discuss his next steps.

Residents of Patna are grappling with significant delays in LPG cylinder deliveries and even instances of non-receipt, despite local authorities promising ample supply. Frustrated residents have encountered numerous obstacles when attempting to book and receive their cylinders, leading some to turn to alternative energy sources.

In a robust ruling, the Patna High Court reprimanded the chairman of a Waqf tribunal for hindering progress on a national highway project. The court overturned a previous order that stalled construction due to the presence of a mosque and graveyard, stressing that judicial authorities should refrain from showing partiality towards specific communities.

Anticipation builds at Mahavir Mandir in Patna as preparations unfold for an extraordinary Ram Navami celebration on March 27, starting at 2 AM. With live LED screens broadcasting the rituals, the temple is set to distribute a staggering 24,000 kg of prasad.

Economic Offences Unit raided executive engineer Manoj Kumar Rajak, uncovering assets 62% exceeding his known income. Searches revealed 17 land documents valued over Rs 3 crore, financial documents worth Rs 1 crore, two vehicles, and significant cash. Rajak allegedly operated a gas agency in his brother's name and was constructing properties in Nepal and Darbhanga.

Bhojpur police swiftly apprehended three individuals, Avinash Pandey, Viraj Kumar, and Harish Pandey, within 24 hours of the murder of Class XI student Sumit Kumar. The victim, who had returned from Surat for his exams, was allegedly shot dead following an earlier dispute.

In a remarkable display of community outreach, the RSS celebrated its centenary year, kicking off on Vijayadashmi 2025, by connecting with over one crore households in Bihar. The dedicated volunteers launched a 'Grih Sampark Abhiyan,' reaching an impressive 84 lakh homes with informative literature. Furthermore, the movement saw participation from 10.