Two shot dead in Patna in separate incidents, ex-BJP farmer leader among them

Patna was rocked by two deadly shootings on the evening of July 12, 2025. Two men lost their lives, including a former BJP farmer leader. These attacks happened at different locations in the city and its outskirts. The incidents have raised alarm about rising violence and the law and order situation in Bihar’s capital.

The Victims and What Happened

The first victim, Surendra Prasad, was about 50 years old. He was well known for his role as a leader in the BJP’s Kisan Morcha, the party’s farmer wing. On that evening, Surendra was working in his field near Sheikhpura village in Patna district. Suddenly, someone shot him. The attackers have not been caught yet.

Surendra was alone when the shooting happened. Neighbors heard the gunshot and rushed to help. They quickly took him to AIIMS Patna hospital. Despite the doctors’ efforts, Surendra died from his injuries. His death shocked the community. People remember him for his political work and support for farmers.

Curiously, police did not find any bullet shells at the shooting site. This fact has made the investigation harder. Authorities are checking if the shooting was related to political rivalries or personal issues, given Surendra’s background.

On the same evening, Jitendra Mahato, a non-practicing lawyer, was also shot dead. The attack occurred in the Sultan Ganj area of East Patna. Police found three empty bullet shells there. They took Jitendra to Patna Medical College and Hospital, but he died during treatment. His killing has increased public anger over security concerns.

Rising Violence and Political Reactions

These shootings are part of a worrying pattern. Patna has seen at least seven shooting incidents in just ten days. Victims include businessmen, traders, and political figures. Some well-known cases are:

• Gopal Khemka, a businessman, killed on July 4
• Ramakant Yadav, a sand trader, killed near Dhana village on July 10
• Vikram Jha, shop owner of Trishna Mart, shot dead on July 11

The surge in violence has sparked criticism from opposition parties. Leaders like Tejashwi Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party have blamed the Nitish Kumar government. They say the administration has failed to control crime.

Opposition leaders question why the Chief Minister has not spoken publicly about the violence. They accuse the government of being unable to stop criminals from operating freely. They warn that the breakdown of law and order threatens the city’s social fabric.

The Bihar government, however, defends its efforts. It highlights ongoing police investigations and forensic work. Officials say they are working hard to catch the criminals and restore safety.

Police Actions and Investigation Challenges

The Patna police have launched detailed investigations into both shootings. They are gathering forensic evidence and reviewing CCTV footage near the crime scenes. The lack of bullet shells at Surendra Prasad’s shooting spot complicates the inquiry. On the other hand, recovered shells in the Jitendra Mahato case help forensic teams understand what happened.

Police have interviewed many witnesses and are exploring several motives. They are considering personal disputes, political rivalries, and possible involvement of organized crime. Since the victims came from different backgrounds, police treat the cases separately but seriously.

To reassure the public, police have increased patrols and set up checkpoints in sensitive areas. Intelligence agencies are also monitoring suspicious activity closely.

Experts say these violent acts reveal weaknesses in Patna’s policing system. The city’s rapid growth and complex politics create a difficult environment for maintaining peace.

Impact on Local Communities

The shootings have shocked the people living in Sheikhpura, Sultan Ganj, and nearby areas. Residents say they feel unsafe. They worry about their families and businesses. Farmers and traders especially fear more attacks, as two victims had ties to these groups.

Family members of Surendra Prasad and Jitendra Mahato demand quick justice. They want better protection for those at risk. On social media, many people have condemned the violence. They call for peace and urge authorities to act swiftly.

Political Implications and What Lies Ahead

The shootings come at a critical time politically. The opposition uses these incidents to question the government’s ability to govern. The ruling party insists investigations must proceed fairly and warns against politicizing the issue.

Security analysts believe the Bihar government will face growing pressure. Officials may need to reform law enforcement strategies. Experts suggest improving community policing, surveillance, and response times to restore trust.

Moreover, these cases show how politics, crime, and social tensions intersect in Bihar. The killing of a former BJP farmer leader adds political sensitivity. This factor may affect both the investigation and public debate.

Conclusion

The two shootings on July 12 exposed serious problems in Patna’s law and order situation. Two men, including a former political leader, lost their lives in separate violent acts. The city faces a rising crime wave that worries citizens and challenges the government.

Authorities continue to investigate. The public watches closely to see if justice will be done. Patna now needs transparent inquiries, stronger security, and efforts to prevent further violence. The coming days will test the state government’s ability to protect its people and maintain peace.