PATNA, July 8 -- In the wake of communal clashes reported during Muharram processions across several districts of Bihar, including Bhagalpur, Samastipur, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Katihar, and Gopalganj, the state administration has stepped up security measures. Internet services in Katihar have been suspended from July 7 until further notice to curb the spread of misinformation. Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Arvind Kumar Chaudhary said the situation is under control, but all district administrations have been directed to remain on high alert. "The step was necessary to stop rumour-mongering through social media platforms and messaging services," he said. The internet ban, imposed under Section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, will remain effective from July 7, 4:00 am to July 8, 4:00 am. As per the directive issued by the Home Department, access to all social media platforms-including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, YouTube, Skype, and Google-has been restricted. "We took this decision due to the spread of rumours via Internet-based services. YouTube channels, social media pages, and several so-called news portals are spreading baseless claims," said Purnea Range DIG Pramod Mandal, adding that the ban may be extended. In Katihar, violence broke out during a Muharram procession in Naya Tola locality when miscreants pelted stones, triggering panic. P3...