Murder of Prominent Businessman Raises Alarms Over Bihar's Law and Order
Serious Concerns Arise After Gopal Khemka's Murder
The assassination of renowned businessman Gopal Khemka in Patna has sparked significant concerns regarding the law and order situation in Bihar. The police are actively investigating the case, while opposition parties are criticizing the Nitish Kumar-led government. Reacting to the incident, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of transforming Bihar into 'India's crime capital.'
Rahul Gandhi's Allegations Against BJP and Nitish Kumar
In a post on the social media platform 'X', Rahul Gandhi stated that the public shooting of businessman Gopal Khemka has once again highlighted that the BJP and Nitish Kumar have collectively turned Bihar into 'India's crime capital.' He remarked, 'Today, Bihar lives under the shadow of robbery, gunfire, and murder. Crime has become commonplace here, and the government is utterly ineffective.' Gandhi urged the people of Bihar, saying, 'This injustice can no longer be tolerated. A government that cannot ensure the safety of your children cannot be trusted with your future.' He emphasized that 'every murder, every robbery, every gunshot is a cry for change. It is time for a new Bihar where there is no fear, only progress. This time, voting is not just about changing the government; it is about saving Bihar.'
Details Surrounding Gopal Khemka's Murder
The Bihar police, investigating the murder of prominent businessman Gopal Khemka, suspect the involvement of gangster Ajay Verma, who is currently imprisoned in Beur Jail. On Friday night, Khemka was shot by assailants on motorcycles near his home. His younger son, Gaurav Khemka, has filed a complaint against unidentified individuals. Reports indicate that senior police officials conducted a raid at Beur Jail to interrogate Ajay Verma. Authorities believe this murder may be linked to a contract killing stemming from a land dispute. Khemka, who owned one of the oldest private hospitals in the state, Magadh Hospital, was shot as he exited his car in front of an apartment near his residence in the upscale Gandhi Maidan area. Notably, seven years ago, his son was also murdered by criminals in Hajipur.
Police Response to the Incident
Patna's Superintendent of Police, Diksha, informed reporters that local officers and patrolling police quickly arrived at the scene. Forensic experts are currently gathering evidence, and the investigation is ongoing. She noted that bullets and cartridges were recovered from the crime scene, and initial findings suggest that Khemka was shot by an unidentified assailant on a motorcycle. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha visited the grieving family of the businessman, stating, 'This is not merely a murder; it is an attempt to challenge law and order. During this time of sorrow, we stand with the victim's family. Those involved in this heinous act will be apprehended, and we will not spare anyone who takes the law into their own hands. If necessary, we will resort to encounters.' He added that the properties of absconding criminals in the state are being destroyed, and police and administration have been given full authority to tackle crime. The identities of the criminals have been established, and they will be captured soon.'
Government's Reaction and Future Actions
Following the incident, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar convened a meeting on Saturday to review the law and order situation in the state. During this meeting, he instructed relevant officials to expedite the investigation into Gopal Khemka's murder. Khemka was reportedly affiliated with the BJP. A statement from the Chief Minister's Office emphasized that maintaining law and order is the top priority for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, warning of strict action against police personnel who show negligence. The statement also reiterated that Nitish has directed officials to complete the investigation into Khemka's murder as swiftly as possible.