The Times of India
Elections 2026Patna / The Times of India
In Gaya, law enforcement officials have detained six suspects in connection with a reported assault on the convoy of HAM-S MLA Jyoti Manjhi. The alarming episode included obstructing her vehicle, physically assaulting her security team, and uttering derogatory caste-based comments.
In a spirited appeal, JD(U) representative Sanjay Kumar Jha called on Union Minister G S Shekhawat to integrate the Mithila Research Institute into the Gyan Bharatam Mission, aimed at safeguarding and digitizing invaluable manuscripts. Furthermore, he championed extensive archaeological efforts at Balirajgarh for the next ten years, underlining the significance of Mithila's vast historical and cultural tapestry.
At the 28th syndicate meeting of Patliputra University, overseen by Vice Chancellor Upendra Prasad Singh, exciting changes were unveiled including promotions for 13 lecturers to reader positions and elevating a talented history teacher to the role of professor. In a decisive move, the university also chose to terminate the services of an absent assistant professor.
Passengers on the Sampoorna Kranti Express from Patna to New Delhi endured significant hardship on Monday. Hundreds of unauthorized commuters boarded reserved 3 AC coaches, preventing ticketed passengers from reaching their seats. The overcrowding caused panic, especially for women and students, with limited access to facilities.
The transformative road initiative connecting Buxar in Bihar to Ballia in Uttar Pradesh is gaining momentum as land acquisition gets underway. Spanning 13 kilometers at a cost of Rs386 crore, this project will link the iconic Janeshwar Mishra Bridge to Bayasi village.
In a troubling turn of events, the mysterious passing of an 11-year-old boy named Bhagelu Chauhan in Buxar has sparked a criminal investigation involving four local residents. Following his disappearance, his body was tragically discovered in a grain storage facility. Grieving community members have rallied together, raising accusations of foul play and a cover-up regarding the circumstances of his death.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has urged the Union government to expedite Patna airport's runway expansion, pledging state support. Aiming to boost air connectivity tenfold in five years, the government is developing a district-wise roadmap for airport modernization, enhanced security, and inclusive infrastructure.
Amid profound financial upheaval, university and college educators in Bihar are grappling with unpaid salaries and pensions that have been overdue since March. The Federation of University Teachers Associations of Bihar expressed concern over the struggles faced by both transferred educators and retired staff.
On May 20, a monumental strike will take place across the nation as over 1.2 million chemists, including 40,000 from Bihar, close their shops for a full day. This action, spearheaded by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) and supported by the Bihar Chemists and Druggists Association, aims to tackle the rise of online pharmacies.
A 17-year-old student, Lakshya Bhardwaj, preparing for competitive exams at a Patna coaching centre, tragically passed away after collapsing during class. Rushed to a hospital, he succumbed to an unknown ailment. Police have launched an investigation, with a forensic team collecting evidence at the institute. The exact cause of death awaits the postmortem report.
In a swift rebuttal to Tejashwi Yadav's allegations regarding biased police actions in Bihar, NDA leaders have accused the RJD of harboring criminal elements. Spokespersons from the BJP and JD(U) underscored the administration's dedication to maintaining law and order, while HAM(S) head pointed to a disturbing incident involving an assault on one of their MLAs.
In Patna, gig workers are navigating a turbulent sea of survival, grappling with relentless petrol price increases that devour their already limited incomes. With no raises from their platforms, the escalating costs of fuel and food are now swallowing up to half of their daily take-home pay.
A 19-year-old girl, Bandana Kumari, was brutally murdered with her throat slit in Supaul district, Bihar, late Monday night. Her body was discovered on the first floor of an upgraded middle school. Police are investigating the incident, examining mobile records and forensic evidence, with the motive still unclear. Senior officers visited the scene.
In a landmark decision, the Patna High Court restored the Y+ security status for MP Pappu Yadav, affirming that such protection is a fundamental right. The court has also initiated a review process for Z-category security, reflecting heightened concerns over safety threats.
In a daring operation, Patna police have taken down a prime suspect involved in the audacious CMS security van robbery after a dramatic shootout. Nitish Kumar, who sustained a leg injury amid the gunfire exchange, was captured following his alleged attack on law enforcement officers.
During the convocation at Nalanda University, P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, underscored the pivotal role of Asia in global affairs alongside Indias robust economic position. He championed a model of sustainable development that integrates knowledge, values, and harmonious living.
A contractor faced a Rs10 lakh penalty from Buidco after a motorcyclist plunged into an open drain pit near Beur jail. The incident, caused by a lack of proper barricading and supervision, has prompted strict safety mandates across all Buidco projects.
Anand Mohan, a former parliamentarian, has set off a political tempest with his bold claims that JD(U) members are sabotaging Nitish Kumar, turning the party into a 'bargaining table for ministerial roles.' In a rapid rebuttal, JD(U) representatives indicate that Anand's statements are fueled by frustration over his son's absence from a ministerial position.
In a bid to bolster security, Bihar's Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has called on administrative and law enforcement officials to remain vigilant along the India-Nepal frontier. He emphasized the urgency of tackling issues like drug trafficking, counterfeit currency, and smuggling with rigorous enforcement and advanced surveillance technologies.
Bihar's power consumers face temporary disruption in online services as North and South Bihar Discoms upgrade billing software. From May 20th evening to May 22nd morning, bill payments, meter recharges, and new connection applications will be unavailable. However, electricity supply remains unaffected, even for smart meter users. Residents are urged to clear dues beforehand.
After a 20-year absence, the endangered Indian Skimmers have made a triumphant return to the Ganga near Bhagalpur, marking a hopeful chapter in ecological restoration. These remarkable birds, which thrive on pristine waters and abundant fish, have been spotted along a stunning 60-km stretch in the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary.
In a swift operation, Patna Police successfully arrested two suspects linked to a shocking robbery and shooting of a teacher. During the engagement, one of the suspects, identified as Sandeep, sustained a leg injury. The suspects, Sandeep alias Badal and Prince, were located thanks to a blend of technological surveillance and community tips.
In a spirited conclusion to their state conference, the CPI(ML) has committed to extend a helping hand to ten lakh underprivileged families while backing the strike of agricultural laborers.
Bihar's Crime Investigation Department is embarking on a groundbreaking digital revolution, aspiring to transition all investigative processes online within six months. This initiative will require police officers to submit charge sheets and final reports digitally, bolstered by comprehensive tech training.
In a compelling call to action, Bihar's Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary extended an invitation to entrepreneurs and investors to rediscover the potential of the state. He pledged to foster a business-friendly atmosphere, promising robust governance and a focus on progress.
In a bold move to enhance governance, Bihar's Chief Minister and Deputy CM are rolling out 'Sahyog camps' in every panchayat, aimed at making the resolution of public concerns easier than ever. From food supply shortages to property issues, officials are prepared to tackle a myriad of grievances within an ambitious 30-day timeframe.
In a decisive move towards accountability, Bihar's Revenue Minister has taken the step of suspending a block revenue officer in Muzaffarpur due to negligence on the job. This action comes after a three-month strike that hampered operations, leading the government to act swiftly.
At the upcoming World Health Assembly in Geneva, BJP spokesperson Kuntal Krishna will present his groundbreaking research, 'Connecting the Unconnected.' This paper illustrates how Bihar has transformed its healthcare landscape for 140 million citizens in the last 20 years, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to universal access.
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Reserve Bank of India has unveiled two foreign currency exchange counters in Raxaul, a pivotal city along the India-Nepal border. This move promises travelers favorable exchange rates and simplifies financial transactions, effectively tackling the challenges previously encountered.
In a significant ruling, Istkhar Alam has received an 11-year sentence alongside a hefty fine of Rs 1 lakh from an Aurangabad court for the possession of nearly 11 kg of opium. His trial concluded promptly following his arrest in April 2025, marking this as the tenth case related to the NDPS Act in the district for the year.
In a troubling incident at a residential school in Bihar, 14 girls collapsed from the sweltering heat and required hospitalization. This unfortunate event echoes a prior occurrence where 27 students suffered similar fates. Medical professionals are inclined to attribute their conditions to heat stroke and fatigue, contrasting with earlier cases that hinted at food poisoning.
In Gaya, a formal complaint has been lodged against seven individuals and twenty others for reportedly assaulting the convoy of HAM-S MLA Jyoti Devi. This altercation stemmed from a dispute over right-of-way, leading to attempts to shatter her vehicles windows and physically assaulting her security personnel.
As the monsoon approaches, Patna is taking proactive steps to combat waterlogging. BUIDCO is implementing a comprehensive strategy, with Managing Director Animesh Kumar Parashar emphasizing the need for swift repair work on drainage pumping stations. Accountability measures for officials are heightened.
As the monsoon approaches, Patna is stepping up its efforts to combat waterlogging. BUIDCO is rolling out a strategic plan led by Managing Director Animesh Kumar Parashar, who has placed a strong emphasis on the urgent maintenance of drainage pumping stations. Officials will be held accountable for their roles in this initiative.
In a spiritual pilgrimage, Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann made his way to Patna Sahib, seeking divine guidance for the implementation of the state's groundbreaking anti-sacrilege law. During his visit, he prayed for not just Punjab's prosperity but also for the establishment of world peace.
Today marks a significant moment for Patliputra University as it convenes its 28th syndicate meeting, expected to yield pivotal decisions regarding academic advancement and improved administrative efficiency. In an exciting development, two new principals have joined the syndicate, bringing fresh perspectives.
Early Monday morning, a scene of alarm unfolded at Sasaram railway station as a coach of the Sasaram-Patna passenger train ignited on platform 6 around 5:30 am. Smoke swirled ominously from coach D3, located five coaches away from the engine, sparking panic among early passengers. Fortunately, firefighters responded swiftly and extinguished the flames within an hour.
In a remarkable display of talent, Abhinav Raj from Sainik School Nalanda clinched third place at the national Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan camp held in Gandhinagar, proudly representing the Central Zone. This accolade not only brought him a certificate, trophy, and cash prize but also the esteemed Bhaskaracharya Scholarship.
Tragedy struck on NH-31 in Khagaria, Bihar, where a devastating collision between a speeding truck and a shared autorickshaw resulted in the untimely deaths of six individuals, including a two-month-old baby. The accident left six others with grave injuries, and in a shocking turn, the truck driver fled the scene.
Delhi Public School Patna East hosted a vibrant Scholar Badge Ceremony, celebrating students who excelled academically. In a parallel celebration, Notre Dame Academy proudly presented the School Blues Award to four outstanding individuals for their remarkable contributions in academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. Both ceremonies showcased unwavering student dedication and the pride these institutions take in their achievements.
In light of the intense heatwave predictions, all Patna schools for grades up to Class VIII will dismiss students by 11 am until May 21. With temperatures rising between 38C and 44C, the local authorities have also set up 400 complimentary water stations throughout the city and mobilized maintenance crews to secure water supplies during this extreme heat.
In a visionary move, Bihar's Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is advocating for the growth of eco-tourism around the state's picturesque reservoirs through innovative public-private collaborations. He is calling for enhanced infrastructure, involving citizens in planning discussions, and creating accessible tourism packages.
In 2024, Bihar's prisons have become overwhelmed, with a staggering 759,482 court appearances made by inmates, marking the highest figure across the country. The root of this crisis lies in the ballooning number of undertrials and a depletion of staff, as over 4,500 positions remain unfilled.
CPI (ML) leader Dipankar Bhattacharya criticized the Bihar government's faulty policies, alleging they empowered the BJP and led to a ulldozer raj suppressing the poor and youth. He questioned the electoral process, citing voter list deletions, and condemned land acquisition for corporations.
Kaimur police have cracked a shocking quadruple murder case, arresting two brothers and two accomplices. The prime accused allegedly killed his elder brother, his wife, and their two children over family disputes. Bodies were dismembered and dumped in suitcases and sacks across the district. Investigators recovered weapons and bloodstains from the scene.

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