The Bihar government has agreed to withdraw all cases linked to youth protests and release everyone arrested, according to Hindustan Times. The decision came after the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation, also known as CJP, and opposition parties threatened to launch a fresh agitation.
The protests, which began over alleged irregularities in the NEET medical entrance exam, escalated into a statewide bandh that turned violent in Siwan. Police there opened fire, injuring three protesters, The Hindu reported. The Times of India quoted government officials saying that no legal action would be taken and that First Information Reports (FIRs) are being withdrawn, marking a significant victory for students and the CJP.
The reversal follows weeks of unrest during which hundreds of young people were detained. NDTV confirmed that the state will release all detainees and drop cases against those involved in the NEET protests. The opposition had warned of a new stir if the government did not relent, forcing the administration to back down.
Observers will now watch whether the withdrawal of cases fully defuses tensions or if protesters demand further action on exam reforms.
