Patna Youth Death Sparks Violent Protest and Arson of Bus and Police Vehicles

On August 7, 2026, a speeding bus on National Highway‑30 near the Zero Mile area of Patna, Bihar, struck a 26‑year‑old man identified as Manish Kumar. The victim died at the scene and the driver fled. The death triggered an angry crowd that blocked the highway, set the bus ablaze, and torched three police vehicles along with several other vehicles. Protesters also hurled stones at police officers and journalists covering the incident. The fire and clashes caused a traffic jam extending up to 10 kilometres and disrupted local transport for several hours. Police deployed additional forces, attempted to disperse the crowd, and began investigations. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence to identify those responsible for the arson and assaults, and have promised legal action against the perpetrators.