Patna: Security was stepped up across Patna on Saturday amid concerns over demonstrations linked to the Cockroach Janata Party’s protest in Delhi against CEC Gyanesh Kumar and the SIR issue. The district administration also warned of legal action against protests held outside the designated site at Gardanibagh without prior permission.Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed at Gandhi Maidan, while CRPF and Bihar Police personnel were positioned near J P Golambar. Iron barricades were erected at Dakbungalow Square, with additional security along key roads and public spaces to prevent unauthorised gatherings and traffic disruption.The alert came as the All India Democratic Students’ Organization (AIDSO) staged a demonstration near Patna College, demanding the CEC’s resignation. Police detained three student members before the protest began: state president Vijay Kumar, state secretary Pawan Kumar and organisation member Raj. They questioned the action, saying they had planned a peaceful demonstration and were exercising their democratic right to protest.In a communique, the district administration said demonstrations at locations other than Gardanibagh were causing traffic congestion and inconvenience. Patna district magistrate (DM) Kundan Kumar and SSP said smooth traffic movement, public convenience and law and order were priorities.The administration said unauthorised protests could disrupt schools, colleges, hospitals, courts and govt offices, besides obstructing ambulances and other emergency services. It urged organisations to hold peaceful demonstrations only at the designated site and warned that violations would invite legal action.Meanwhile, the protests disrupted rail services between Bihar and Delhi, inconveniencing passengers. The affected Patna-Delhi services were restored on Saturday.Central range inspector general (IG) Jitendra Rana said police were primarily focused on security for Durga Puja, which begins on Sunday. “CCTV surveillance and regular patrolling are being arranged to manage crowds and prevent crime,” he said.
