Patna (Bihar) [India], July 13 (ANI): In another shocking incident underscoring the deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar, unidentified assailants shot dead a lawyer in Patna’s Sultanganj area on Sunday, police said.
The victim, identified as Jitendra Mahato, approximately 58, succumbed to his injuries while being treated at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).
This killing follows closely on the heels of the recent murders of prominent businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka and another individual in Patna’s Ram Krishna Nagar area, intensifying opposition criticism of the Nitish Kumar-led government over rising crime in the state.
Police are present at the scene, and an investigation is underway.
SP Patna East, Parichay Kumar, said Mahato was shot by unidentified criminals while returning from his routine tea visit. Police recovered three bullet shells at the scene, and forensic teams and local officials have been deployed. CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify the assailants and establish the motive.
“Criminals shot a person named Jitendra Mahato. He was taken to PMCH for treatment, where he died. The family said he used to come here every day to drink tea. Today, he came and was shot while returning. Three bullet shells have been recovered from the spot. The identities of the criminals and their motives are under investigation. FSL teams, local police, and the SDO were called. CCTV cameras in the vicinity are being examined. The case is being investigated from every angle,” Kumar said.
Preliminary information indicates the deceased was a lawyer who had not practiced for the past two years, the SP added.
On the larger law and order situation in Bihar, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Sunday insisted there is no organized crime in the state, while conceding that the government cannot always prevent murders stemming from personal disputes.
“There is good governance in Bihar; there is no organized crime,” Choudhary told ANI. “If a murder is taking place due to some personal dispute, then it is a bit difficult for the government to stop it. But no organized crime will be allowed to take place in Bihar. This is clear,” he said.
Earlier in the day, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav sharply criticized the NDA government, citing the murder of the BJP leader in Patna. “And now, a BJP leader shot dead in Patna! What to say, and to whom? Is there anyone in the NDA government willing to listen to the truth or admit their mistakes?” Yadav posted on X.
“Everyone knows about the CM’s health, but what are the two useless BJP deputy chief ministers doing? No statement from the corrupt Bhunja-DK party?” he added. (ANI)
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