Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Patna, Aug 1: A 70-year-old man was allegedly shot dead following a long-standing dispute over a pathway in Bihar's Vaishali district on Saturday, police said.

The deceased, identified as Harbansu Rai, was killed in Raghopur East Panchayat under the Judawanpur police station limits, triggering tension in the village.

According to police, Harbansu Rai had been involved in a prolonged dispute with his neighbour, Shyam Nandan Rai, over a pathway. The accused had allegedly constructed a house over the disputed passage, while the deceased had erected pillars around the area. The two sides had reportedly clashed over the issue on earlier occasions as well.

Police said another confrontation broke out between the two groups on Saturday morning, during which gunfire was allegedly exchanged. Harbansu Rai sustained a gunshot injury to the eye and died on the spot.

The victim's family has accused Shyam Nandan Rai, Raja Ram Rai and Karu Rai of involvement in the killing.

Following the incident, a large number of villagers gathered at the scene, prompting police personnel from Judawanpur and Raghopur police stations to camp in the area to maintain law and order.

Police took custody of the body and sent it for post-mortem examination. Investigators are collecting evidence from the crime scene, while raids are underway to arrest the accused, who are currently absconding.

Vaishali Superintendent of Police Shubhank Mishra said police received information about the shooting and were probing the case from all angles.

He said efforts had been intensified to apprehend the accused and assured that strict legal action would be taken against those found responsible.

An FIR has been registered against Shyam Nandan Rai and others under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for murder at the Judawanpur police station.