Daijiworld Media Network - Patna

Patna, Jul 5: The murder of prominent businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka in Patna has sparked a major political controversy, with Opposition leaders slamming the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government for failing to maintain law and order. Khemka, a respected industrialist, was shot dead outside his residence late Friday night in an attack eerily similar to the 2018 murder of his son Gunjan Khemka.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav strongly criticised the government, calling the current situation in Bihar "Maha Jungle Raj." He said, “Criminals are out of control and the Chief Minister is in a state of political unconsciousness.” Yadav also accused the BJP of turning Bihar into a lawless state, adding that people are fleeing due to rising crime.

Jan Adhikar Party chief Pappu Yadav demanded a Supreme Court-monitored CBI probe, alleging that a powerful mastermind was behind both father and son's murders. He claimed that the killer had political protection and called for immediate action.

Senior BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad expressed deep sorrow over Khemka’s death, describing it as a personal loss. While announcing the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), Prasad dismissed Opposition allegations of governance failure, stating that the state government is vigilant and committed to justice.

Patna SSP Kartikeya K Sharma confirmed that the police have strong leads and are exploring links to the previous murder. He assured that the investigation would be thorough and swift.

Gopal Khemka, a low-profile but influential figure, had built a business empire including the now-closed Magadh Hospital, several pharmacies, a petrol pump, and multiple manufacturing units. His killing has not only shocked the business community but also reignited a fierce political debate over Bihar’s deteriorating security situation.