Mon Jan 06 18:24:36 UTC 2025: **Patna, Bihar: Prominent strategist Prashant Kishor arrested and jailed**
PATNA, INDIA – Prashant Kishor, a well-known political strategist, was arrested in Patna on Monday and subsequently sent to Beur Jail. His arrest followed a protest at Gandhi Maidan where he was staging an indefinite hunger strike demanding the cancellation of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam.
The arrest sparked violent clashes between Kishor’s supporters and police outside the Patna Civil Court. Supporters, angered by Kishor’s imprisonment, engaged in vandalism and clashes with police, resulting in injuries to several officers, including one with a broken arm. Police resorted to force to control the situation.
Kishor, who refused bail, stated that his hunger strike would continue even from within the jail. Video footage circulating on social media appears to show a police officer slapping Kishor during his arrest, further fueling the protests.
The incident comes amidst allegations against Kishor of attempting to hijack the BPSC protest movement. The police action and subsequent unrest have raised significant concerns about the handling of the situation and the escalating tensions surrounding the BPSC exam controversy. Investigations are underway to assess the extent of the damage and injuries. The ongoing protest continues to be a focal point of attention in Bihar.
**Separate News Brief: HMPV Virus Detected in India**
NEW DELHI, INDIA – India has reported its first case of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus originating in China. Further details regarding the location of the case and specific symptoms are pending official announcements.
First Piper 