Rival Coaching Director Arrested Over Attack on Khan Sir's Patna Institute

Police in Patna arrested three men on Tuesday, including a rival coaching institute director, for allegedly attacking and vandalising the popular preparation centre run by the well-known educator Faizal Khan, widely recognised as Khan Sir. The arrests came 48 hours after violent visuals of the incident spread across social media, triggering outrage among students and residents in the capital city of Bihar.

Three Suspects Named, Including a Rival Director

Detectives confirmed the primary suspect is Prince Gaurav, who operates a competing coaching facility in the same neighbourhood. Abhishek and another individual whose surname matches the rival institute's records were also taken into custody following raids conducted across multiple locations in Patna on Tuesday morning. Officials stated the three suspects will face charges including criminal trespass, mischief, and intimidation.

Inspector General of Police (Patna Range) Roshan Anand addressed reporters at a press briefing, confirming the arrests and promising a thorough investigation. "We have collected preliminary evidence including CCTV footage and witness statements," Anand said. "The motive appears connected to fierce competition between coaching centres targeting students preparing for government examinations."

What Happened at Khan Sir's Institute

The attack occurred late on Sunday evening when the coaching centre was closed for the day. Eyewitnesses from the nearby Anisabad locality reported hearing loud noises and seeing several men damaging furniture and display boards outside the institute. No students were present during the incident, but property damage was extensive, local sources indicated.

Videos shared widely on platforms including X and Instagram showed broken window panes and torn examination posters strewn across the compound. Students who study at the centre expressed fear about resuming classes after the attack.

Fierce Competition Behind Bihar Coaching Industry

The incident has drawn attention to the cutthroat rivalry among Patna's coaching centres, which collectively serve thousands of aspirants for civil services and state government jobs each year. Revenue at major institutes runs into several crores annually, creating intense pressure to attract and retain students.

Khan Sir's centre, operating for over a decade, has become one of the most recognisable names in the city's test preparation sector. His teaching style and accessible approach have generated a massive following among youth from economically modest backgrounds across Bihar. The attack highlights how commercial stakes have escalated tensions between competing operators.

Student Community Reacts With Anger

Dozens of students gathered outside the institute on Monday morning, demanding immediate security arrangements and the swift prosecution of those responsible. Many said they feared returning to a venue that could become a target again.

"We travel from villages two hours away because this place gives us real guidance," said one aspirant who declined to give her name. "Now we do not know if we can even continue our preparation." Parents in the neighbourhood echoed concerns about safety, urging authorities to increase police patrols near coaching clusters.

Local Community Raises Safety Concerns

Residents of Anisabad and surrounding areas expressed worry that the violence could spread to other institutes. Several coaching owners told local media they are now considering hiring private security guards after the incident. The neighbourhood association called an emergency meeting for Wednesday to discuss collective safety measures.

Patna's coaching hub, concentrated in areas like Kankarbagh, Boring Road, and Anisabad, draws students from across Bihar and neighbouring Jharkhand. Any disruption to operations at prominent centres creates a ripple effect affecting hundreds of families who have invested their savings in examination preparation.

Police Pledge Increased Patrols Near Coaching Clusters

Following the arrests, senior officials announced plans to deploy additional beat constables near major coaching intersections in Patna. The police statement also urged coaching institute operators to report threats or disputes through official channels rather than resorting to violence.

Legal observers noted the suspects face a non-bailable offence under Section 436 of the Indian Penal Code, which covers mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy property. If convicted, the penalties could include imprisonment extending to seven years.

What Comes Next in the Investigation

Investigators are reviewing more than 20 hours of closed-circuit television footage to establish the timeline of Sunday's attack and identify any additional participants. A chargesheet is expected within 30 days, police sources indicated.

For the residents of Patna's coaching districts, the immediate concern shifts to whether the arrests will restore confidence or merely mark another chapter in escalating hostilities between commercial rivals. Watch for court proceedings scheduled to begin next month and any response from Khan Sir himself regarding the future operations of his institute.