Patna: In a shocking late-night incident that has sent ripples across Bihar’s political landscape, prominent businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka was shot dead outside his residence in Patna on Friday night. The murder, which took place near the upscale ‘Panache’ Hotel and Twin Tower Society under the Gandhi Maidan police station limits, has reignited concerns over law and order just months before the state heads into Assembly elections.
According to initial reports, Khemka was returning home around 11 PM when he was attacked. Eyewitnesses say he was shot at close range, and succumbed to his injuries on the spot. Patna Superintendent of Police (SP) Diksha confirmed the recovery of a bullet and a shell from the scene and stated that investigations are underway. The motive behind the killing remains unclear.
“This incident took place in a high-security zone. A team is reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding buildings and hotels. Multiple angles are being examined, and we are treating this as a high-priority case,” SP Diksha said.
The incident bears chilling resemblance to the 2018 murder of Khemka’s son, Gunjan Khemka, who was similarly shot dead near his factory gate in Vaishali. The fact that both murders remain unsolved has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of Bihar’s policing system.
Political reactions were swift and scathing. Independent MP Pappu Yadav, known for his blunt rhetoric, launched a fierce attack on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, calling the incident further proof of “gunda raj” in Bihar. “How many more lives before the state wakes up? Nitish ji, please spare Bihar,” Yadav posted on X.
RJD leader Rishi Mishra echoed the criticism, saying, “This government has lost its grip completely. The CM seems disconnected from reality. When businessmen and public figures are not safe, what can the common man expect?”
The murder has become a major flashpoint for the Opposition, which is likely to use it as a central theme in the run-up to the 2025 Bihar Assembly polls. The BJP, while mourning the loss of a key local leader, has remained cautious in its immediate political response, with senior leaders demanding a swift investigation.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened in and around Patna, and extra forces have been deployed at key locations. Senior police officials are said to be monitoring the probe personally, with support from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Special Task Force (STF).
