The state of Bihar is facing mounting concerns over its law and order situation, with a series of recent killings igniting public outrage and drawing sharp criticism against the Nitish Kumar government. The latest incident involves the fatal shooting of a lawyer, Jitendra Mahato, in Patna's Sultanganj area on Sunday. Mahato, aged approximately 58, succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).
This incident follows the recent murders of Gopal Khemka, a prominent businessman, and another individual in Patna's Ram Krishna Nagar area, further fueling the opposition's criticism of the government. Police officials are currently investigating the crime, with SP Patna East, Parichay Kumar, confirming that Mahato was shot by unidentified criminals. Three bullet casings have been recovered from the scene, and authorities are examining potential motives and the identities of the attackers, with forensic teams deployed and surveillance footage under review. Preliminary information suggests that Mahato was a lawyer who had not practiced for the last two years.
The recent surge in violent crimes has triggered a political firestorm, with the opposition raising serious questions about the Nitish Kumar government's ability to maintain law and order. Concerns have been amplified by the fact that Mahato's killing is the fourth shooting incident reported in Bihar within a 24-hour span. These incidents include the murder of businessman Putu Khan in Sitamarhi, who was shot dead outside his shop, and the killing of Surendra Kumar, a veterinary doctor in Patna district, who was attacked while irrigating his field. Additionally, grocery store owner Vikram Jha was fatally shot in Patna's Ramkrishna Nagar area.
The opposition has been swift in its condemnation of the government's handling of the situation. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has been a vocal critic, questioning the NDA government's response and highlighting governance concerns. Other opposition leaders have echoed these concerns, with some calling for urgent police reforms and accusing the government of failing to control the rising crime. Congress leader Salman Khurshid expressed sorrow over the deteriorating law and order situation, urging citizens to hold the government accountable.
Even allies of the Nitish Kumar government have voiced their concerns. Union Minister and LJP (RV) chief Chirag Paswan questioned the role of the Bihar Police, commenting on social media, "How many more murders will Biharis have to face now? It is beyond understanding what the responsibility of the Bihar Police is".
The Nitish Kumar government has faced similar criticisms in the past. In response to the escalating concerns, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has held meetings with top officials to review the law and order situation and has asserted that it is the government's top priority. The government has also taken steps to modernize policing infrastructure, including flagging off new police vehicles to improve crime response times and investigation efficiency. However, these efforts have so far failed to quell public anxiety and opposition criticism.
While the JD(U) has defended the government by citing National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, arguing that Bihar fares better than many other states in terms of crime rate, the recent surge in violent incidents has made it difficult to ignore the deteriorating situation on the ground. The repeated formation of Special Investigation Teams (SITs) after every major crime has also been criticized as an insufficient response.
As Bihar approaches its Assembly elections, the law and order situation is likely to remain a central issue, with the opposition poised to capitalize on public discontent. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government can restore public confidence and effectively address the growing concerns over crime and safety in the state.
