According to police, a large number of people gathered outside Dagarua police station in Purnea, about 350 kilometres from here, when news spread that the body of a local youth, Mohd. Iqbal alias Nasim, was found floating in a pond near the police station.
Villagers gathered near the station alleged police involvement in the death of Iqbal, who was allegedly kidnapped two days ago.
The people shouted slogans against police, blocked the national highway and burned tyres. They also pelted police vehicles with stones. The security personnel had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the angry protesters.
Police said that soon after, a group of protesters attacked the police station and set it on fire.
Purnia Superintendent of Police Amit Lodha said the police personnel were forced to open fire to control the unruly mob which left six people injured.
According to Lodha, nearly half a dozen police officials were also suffered injuries in the clash.
Published 15 October 2011, 18:06 IST