Patna Protest: Tejashwi Yadav Leads March Against SIR, Demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s Exit

October 8, 2026

Patna: RJD leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, participated in the Grand Alliance’s protest in Patna on Thursday. The protest was organized against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list and the functioning of the Election Commission.

The opposition had announced a two-day statewide agitation. “Aakrosh Marches” were held at block headquarters on October 7, while demonstrations at district headquarters and a march to Lok Bhavan in Patna were planned on October 8.

Tejashwi Yadav led the march

Opposition parties organized the protest to protest alleged irregularities in the SIR process and demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Tejashwi Yadav led the march in Patna. Meanwhile, leaders and workers of the Grand Alliance took to the streets, raising slogans against the Election Commission and demanding action against Gyanesh Kumar.

During the protest, Tejashwi Yadav climbed a police barricade, leading to a scuffle between protesters and police officers. The administration had barricaded the roads leading to Lok Bhavan and deployed additional security forces to maintain law and order and regulate traffic. Other opposition leaders, including RJD leader Bhai Virendra, also joined the protest.

Opposition raises questions about SIR

Tejashwi Yadav said that the opposition has consistently raised questions about the functioning of the Election Commission and is now protesting unitedly against issues related to the SIR process.

Opposition parties have alleged that the names of genuine voters were removed or excluded from the voter list during the revision of the voter list. Tejashwi Yadav has accused the Election Commission of working in favor of the BJP and demanded the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

However, these are allegations made by the opposition. The Election Commission and the BJP have rejected these allegations.

Opposition parties have demanded the Election Commission respond to their concerns regarding the revision of the voter list and provide information on the action taken on complaints received during the process.

Tightened Security Arrangements in Patna

Security was increased in the capital Patna in view of the protests. Rapid Action Force (RAF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Bihar Police personnel were deployed at key locations. Barricades were erected at several locations on the roads leading to the Secretariat Police Station and Lok Bhavan.

The administration also deployed vehicles equipped with water cannons to maintain law and order and prevent any disruptions during the march. Traffic arrangements were also strengthened.

Tejashwi Yadav also questioned the Election Commission regarding the transfer of ₹10,000 to women’s bank accounts before the Bihar Assembly elections. He asked what action the Election Commission took regarding such transfers during the election period.