Bihar in Shock After BJP Leader Gopal Khemka Shot Dead in Patna: Political Blame Game Erupts Over Rising Crime

By Ronald Kapper
Published: July 6, 2025

Patna, Bihar – A wave of political outrage and public grief has swept across Bihar after prominent businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka was shot dead in Patna on Friday evening. The incident has reignited fierce criticism of the state's law and order situation, with opposition leaders accusing the ruling government of gross negligence and administrative failure.

The 58-year-old Khemka, known for his deep political connections and influential role in Bihar’s trading circles, was shot multiple times by unidentified assailants near the Kasera Toli area of Kadamkuan, a busy neighborhood in central Patna. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

Chilling Attack in Broad Daylight

According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred around 7:15 PM while Khemka was returning home after attending a business meeting. Two masked men on a motorbike intercepted his car and opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene. Initial police reports confirm that Khemka was shot at least four times, with one bullet striking him fatally in the chest.

Security footage from the area is currently being analyzed. Police suspect the murder may be linked to a property dispute or political rivalry, though no official motive has yet been confirmed.

"This was a planned and cold-blooded murder," said Patna SSP Rajeev Mishra. "We have formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe all possible angles. The killers will not go unpunished."

Political Fallout: Opposition Blasts Nitish Kumar Government

Khemka’s murder has triggered a political firestorm in Bihar. Leaders across party lines have condemned the incident, but the strongest criticism has come from the BJP and the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), who allege a collapse of law and order under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration.

Union Minister Chirag Paswan expressed outrage, stating, “If a well-known BJP leader can be shot dead in the heart of the capital, what hope is there for ordinary citizens? This government has failed to protect its own people.”

Senior BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi also weighed in: “Bihar has become a crime capital. Criminals roam free and fearless. It is no longer just a law and order issue—it’s a governance crisis.”

The incident is expected to dominate the upcoming state assembly session, with BJP MLAs planning to raise the matter as a top priority.

A Family in Mourning, A City in Fear

Khemka’s death has left his family, friends, and supporters devastated. His son, Rishi Khemka, who was present at the hospital, said, “My father served the party and the people of Bihar faithfully. He believed in justice. We want the killers brought to justice swiftly.”

Residents in the Kadamkuan area have expressed growing concerns about increasing crime in their locality. “Snatching, extortion, and now murder—this is not the Patna we used to know,” said Sunita Verma, a local resident. “It feels like no one is safe anymore.”

Local businesses remained closed on Saturday in protest, and BJP workers held a candlelight vigil in front of the state BJP headquarters to honor Khemka’s memory.

Bihar’s Rising Crime Graph: A Recurring Issue

Khemka’s murder is the latest in a string of high-profile killings in Bihar this year, underlining the growing unease among both citizens and political circles. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) shows an uptick in violent crimes across key districts including Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya.

Experts warn that the state’s faltering policing infrastructure, coupled with political interference, is contributing to the worsening situation.

“Bihar needs urgent police reforms,” said Dr. Anjana Verma, a criminologist at Patna University. “The police must be empowered to act independently and be held accountable. Otherwise, crimes like these will continue to escalate.”

Government on the Defensive

In response to mounting criticism, the Nitish Kumar-led government has promised a thorough investigation. Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav called the murder "deeply unfortunate" and said, “No one will be spared, regardless of political connections. We are committed to maintaining peace and security.”

However, many see these assurances as hollow. A number of recent high-profile cases remain unresolved, and trust in the state's criminal justice system is rapidly eroding.

Legacy of Gopal Khemka

Beyond his political affiliations, Khemka was known for his philanthropic work and was a key figure in Patna’s trader associations. He had long advocated for small business reforms, improved infrastructure, and law enforcement in Bihar’s urban centers.

His sudden death has not only robbed the BJP of a loyal leader but has also dealt a blow to Bihar’s already embattled business community.

Conclusion

The murder of Gopal Khemka is more than a singular tragedy—it’s a grim reminder of the fragile state of public safety in Bihar. As investigations continue and pressure mounts on the government, citizens and political observers alike are left wondering how many more lives will be lost before meaningful change is made.

Whether the Nitish Kumar government can restore public confidence and ensure swift justice remains to be seen. For now, Bihar mourns another victim of a deeply flawed system.