Water cannons deployed as Patna protesters demand CEC's resignation

Clashes broke out in Patna on Tuesday as police moved to contain a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The confrontation escalated after demonstrators forced their way past security cordons established at Dak Bungalow Crossing, prompting law enforcement to deploy water cannons to control the crowd.

Authorities had fortified security arrangements along the protest route in anticipation of the march. Despite the enhanced precautions, protesters managed to breach the barricades, leading to a swift police response to prevent further advancement toward the demonstration site.

The use of water cannons marked an intensification of efforts to disperse the gathering. Police maintained a heavy presence throughout the area as officials sought to manage the situation and restore order.

The protest reflected growing discontent with Kumar's stewardship of the electoral commission. The demonstration underscored tensions surrounding election management in the region, though no details emerged regarding specific grievances cited by the organizers.