Businessman and BJP Leader Gopal Khemka Shot Dead in Patna, Police Investigate Possible Link to Son’s 2018 Murder
Townhall Times | Patna, Bihar
In a shocking incident that has sparked outrage and raised fresh concerns over law and order in Bihar, well-known businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka was shot dead late Friday night near Gandhi Maidan, one of Patna’s most prominent areas. The murder, caught on CCTV, has deepened suspicions of a planned conspiracy, especially since Khemka’s only son, Gunjan, was also murdered under similar circumstances in 2018.
The Incident
According to police, the attack took place around 11:40 p.m. on July 4th. Gopal Khemka had just returned home and was near the entrance of his apartment when two men on a motorbike approached. One of the assailants, wearing a helmet, fired multiple shots at close range before fleeing the scene.
Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, doctors declared Khemka dead on arrival. CCTV footage shows the attacker calmly walking up to Khemka’s car and shooting, indicating prior surveillance and planning.
Echoes of the Past
The murder immediately drew parallels with the killing of Khemka’s son, Gunjan Khemka, in 2018. Gunjan, who ran an industrial business in Hajipur, was also gunned down by motorcycle-borne assailants. At that time too, the case had raised serious questions about security for high-profile businessmen in Bihar. Police now suspect the same criminal network or motive might be linked to both murders.
Police Action and Political Reaction
Following the killing, Patna police launched a multi-pronged investigation. Raids were conducted in Beur Central Jail to explore possible links between jailed criminals and the shooters. Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar has formed multiple teams, including units under the SSP, DSP, and IG, to fast-track the investigation. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is also looking into call data records, CCTV footage, and recent threats, if any.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held an emergency meeting on Saturday morning, directing police officials to take “strict and swift” action. He emphasized that any officer found negligent would face departmental action.
Opposition Slams Government
Opposition parties quickly seized on the incident to target the state government. RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari said, “When criminals can shoot such an influential person in a prime location, what does that say about law and order? This is jungle raj.”
Congress leaders also criticized the reported three-hour delay in police response and demanded the resignation of top officers.
Independent MP Pappu Yadav, who visited the crime scene, said, “This shows criminals have no fear. The government must answer why such murders keep happening.”
Fear Among Business Community
The killing has sent shockwaves through Patna’s business circles. Gopal Khemka was the director of Magadh Hospital and an active member of several trade and social organizations. Many businessmen now demand increased police protection, especially for those previously targeted.
What’s Next?
Police sources say they are investigating whether extortion threats, old business rivalries, or personal enmity played a role. The murder weapon has not yet been recovered, but investigators hope forensic analysis and mobile tracking will help identify the shooters.
As Bihar reels under the weight of yet another high-profile murder, questions remain over whether justice will be swift—or if this case too will fade into unsolved files, like so many before it.
Townhall Times will continue to follow the investigation and bring you updates.
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