Ex-minister among 12 hurt in stage collapse

Madhepura: Chaos broke out when a stage set up to protest against the amended Waqf Act collapsed, injuring at least 12 people, including former education minister and RJD leader Chandrashekhar, as well as local CPI leader Pramod Prabhalar. The incident took place at the Kala Bhawan auditorium in Madhepura town on Saturday.
The injured were taken to Madhepura Sadar Hospital for treatment. Chandrashekhar sustained an injury to his left shoulder while the CPI leader suffered a toe fracture. Several others received minor injuries in the incident.
The disruption occurred when supporters surged onto the stage behind the former minister, causing it to give way under excessive weight.
Speaking after the incident, the injured CPI leader said he would continue the agitation until the amended Act is repealed. He said, "The amended Act is intended to acquire Waqf lands to benefit industrialists and big business tycoons."