PATNA: A local BJP leader has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Bihar’s Sheikhpura village, a week after killing of businessman Gopal Khemka in Patna. The victim, Surendra Kewat, 52, was a former president of the BJP Kisan Morcha in Punpun.

He was reportedly irrigating his field near the Bihta–Sarmera State Highway-78 on Saturday night when he was attacked. According to police, four assailants arrived on two motorbikes and fired multiple shots at him before fleeing the scene.

Neighbours rushed to help after hearing the gunfire and took Mr Kewat to AIIMS Patna, where he later died of his injuries. Sub-divisional police officer Kanhaiya Singh and Pipra police visited the scene following the incident.

Patna SP (East) Parichay Kumar confirmed that no shell casings were recovered and that the victim was shot once. A post-mortem examination is underway and police said an FIR will be registered after receiving a complaint from the family. A investigation has also been launched. Local MLA Gopal Ravidas met the victim’s family at AIIMS and assured them that those responsible would be brought to justice. He also raised concerns about rising crime in the region.

Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav criticised the state government in a post on social media platform X, saying, “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?” He also questioned the role of the state's deputy chief ministers, saying: “Everyone knows about the CM's health, but what are the two useless BJP deputy chief ministers doing?”

Gopal Khemka murderBusinessman Gopal Khemka was shot dead near Gandhi Maidan in Patna, Bihar, at around 11.00pm on 4 July.Police said one bullet and its shell were recovered from the scene. Superintendent of Police Diksha confirmed the incident, saying they received information that the shooting had taken place in the southern part of the Gandhi Maidan area.