•The 1989 Bhagalpur riots began on October 24 due to false rumors of attacks between communities, leading to widespread violence.
•Initial rumors claimed "Muslims attacked" and "Hindu students killed," both proven false, but sparked two months of terror.
•Over 1000 people were killed and 50,000 displaced; police and administration were accused of inaction under the Congress government.
•Lalu Prasad Yadav, who became CM in 1990, faced accusations of protecting rioters, with key accused Kameshwar Yadav receiving patronage.
•Nitish Kumar's government (2005) reopened cases, formed the Justice N.N. Singh Commission, convicted rioters, and increased victim compensation, though full justice remains elusive for some.
