Sunday, December 25 2005 13:18 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Patna: Repenting police lathicharge on agitating teachers yesterday (Dec 24, 2005) in which about 25 of them were injured, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today ordered an investigation into the incident.

"I feel sorry for the incident. I have directed Home Secretary H C Sirohi to inquire into the incident and submit a report to me soon on the circumstances leading to the unfortunate incident," Kumar told reporters here.

The Chief Minister said he also contacted Human Resources Development Minister Brishen Patel seeking to know the details about the demands of the 'siksha mitras' (temporary teachers).

Kumar had gone to inspect the site of proposed building of the extension centre of Ranchi-based Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), the foundation of which was laid yesterday.

He was scheduled to lay the foundation of the Institution, but could not attend the function because of delay of his flight from Delhi.

At least 25 were injured when police lathicharged and used water cannons to disperse hundreds of 'sikshamittras' when they tried to break the security cordon and blocked the busy Bailey Road near Hartali Chowk, where prohibitory orders are in force, in an attempt to meet the Chief Minister. But Kumar was away in New Delhi. They were demonstrating to press for their demands, including one relating to enhancing their honorariums.

Kumar categorically said the agitating teachers had not sought any prior appointment with him, but he would welcome any delegation of the teachers if they want to meet him.