Bihar Shooting Spree: Lawyer Shot Dead in Patna, Fourth Killing in 24 Hours

A 58-year-old man identified as Jitendra Kumar Mahto was shot dead on Thursday in Patna’s Sultanpur police station area, marking the fourth fatal shooting reported in Bihar within 24 hours, triggering fresh concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in the poll-bound state. Mahto, a lawyer who had not been actively practising for two years, was shot by unidentified assailants while returning after having tea.

Patna East SP Parichay Kumar confirmed that Mahto was shot and later died during treatment. “Criminals shot a person named Jitendra Mahato. Three bullet shells were recovered, and we are investigating the case from all angles,” Kumar said. Patna City ASP Atulesh Jha also visited the scene, and police teams have started analysing CCTV footage from nearby areas to trace the attackers.

Mahto’s family stated that he visited the spot daily for tea, and on Thursday, he was attacked while returning. The Forensic Science Laboratory has been informed, and the Sultanpur police are questioning locals for leads in the case.

The killing comes amid a series of fatal shootings across Bihar within a span of 24 hours. On Saturday, businessman Putu Khan was shot dead at point-blank range at Mehsaul Chowk, the busiest market area in Sitamarhi district. CCTV footage captured the daylight murder, leading to tensions in the area as Khan’s family staged a protest with the body, alleging the killing was linked to a land dispute.

Hours later, veterinary doctor and BJP Kisan Morcha’s former block president Surendra Kumar was shot while irrigating his field in Sheikhpura village, Patna district. He was found with bullet wounds and rushed to AIIMS Patna by villagers but died during treatment. Police said bike-borne attackers were involved and have not ruled out political motives.

In another incident on Friday evening, grocery shop owner Vikram Jha was shot dead in the Ramkrishna Nagar area of Patna. Police have launched investigations, but the motive behind the murder remains unclear.

The spate of killings has led to widespread concern among locals and on social media, with many questioning the safety of citizens in Bihar as the state prepares for upcoming elections. Opposition leaders have criticised the government, calling the situation a “collapse of law and order,” while police officials have assured swift action to track down those responsible.