BJP leader Surendra Kewat was gunned down in Bihar’s Sheikhpura district, just a week after the brazen daylight killing of businessman Gopal Khemka outside his home in Patna.
The 52-year-old BJP Kisan Morcha leader was shot multiple times by two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle. According to police, the attack occurred while Kewat was working in the fields. He was rushed to AIIMS Patna with four bullet injuries but succumbed to his wounds during treatment.
“Surendra was working in the fields when unidentified men shot him dead. He was rushed to AIIMS, but he died during treatment. We have recorded statements of his relatives and action is being taken,” police officer Kanhaiya Singh said.
Senior leaders, including MLA Gopal Ravidas and former minister Shyam Rajak, reached the hospital to meet Kewat’s family. They also urged hospital authorities to expedite formalities. A police investigation is underway, with forensic teams deployed and raids being conducted to nab the culprits.
Murder Sparks Panic In Bihar
Kewat’s murder has triggered panic among residents and fueled growing concerns about Bihar’s deteriorating law and order situation, especially since it comes so soon after the high-profile Khemka killing.
The incident also comes as a political flashpoint in an election year, with the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government under mounting pressure from the opposition over rising crime in the state.
RJD, Congress Slam Nitish Govt
Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, was quick to target the ruling alliance, posting on X, “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?”
“Everyone knows about the CM’s health, but what are the two useless BJP deputy chief ministers doing?” he added, sharpening his attack on the leadership.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, accused the BJP and Nitish Kumar of turning Bihar into “India’s crime capital.”
“Bihar is today living in the shadow of loot, bullets and murder. Crime has become the new normal and the government has completely failed,” he said in a post on X.
“Every murder, loot and bullet is a cry for change. It is time for a new Bihar where progress, and not fear, resides. This is not an election just to change the government, but to save Bihar,” he added.
In response, Union Minister and former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi came out in defence of the state government. He blamed the RJD for allegedly shielding criminals and politicising crime to discredit the administration.
“Criminals are no longer entertained in the Bihar Chief Minister’s residence. They are gunned down. Those raising questions on law and order should understand this,” he said.
