In yet another chilling incident that underscores the deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar’s capital, a local businessman was shot dead by unidentified criminals late Friday night. The victim, Bikram Jha, owner of Krishna Mini Mart, was closing his shop in the Ashochak locality under Ramkrishna Nagar police station when he was brutally attacked.

This tragic murder has once again sparked fear among the residents of Patna, especially the trader community, which has been increasingly feeling unsafe amid a surge in targeted attacks and violent crimes.

What Happened in Patna on Friday Night?

According to eyewitnesses and family members, the incident took place at around 10:30 PM on July 11, when Bikram Jha was preparing to shut down his store after the day’s business. It was at this moment that two armed assailants arrived on a motorcycle and fired multiple rounds at close range.

One of the bullets reportedly struck Jha on the temple (side of the head), causing critical injuries. Locals who heard the gunshots rushed to the spot and, along with his family members, immediately transported him to a nearby private hospital. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Criminals Escaped the Scene Without a Trace

The audacity and precision of the attack suggest that it may have been a planned murder, possibly motivated by extortion, business rivalry, or other criminal intents. After the shooting, the attackers fled the scene, and no arrests have been made at the time of this report.

Residents expressed shock and outrage at the brazen act, especially as it took place in a relatively populated and well-lit area of Patna. Many are now questioning the effectiveness of local policing and the growing impunity with which criminals operate.

Police Response and Ongoing Investigation

The Ramkrishna Nagar police reached the crime scene shortly after midnight. Authorities are said to have recovered CCTV footage from nearby shops and homes, which they are currently examining for clues. Senior police officials have assured that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) may be formed if necessary to expedite the probe.

A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and teams have been deployed to track down the accused based on available leads. However, the delay in police action—with no patrol reportedly present at the time of the incident—has drawn criticism from locals and political leaders alike.

A Rising Trend of Businessmen Being Targeted in Patna

This is not an isolated incident. Patna has seen a concerning rise in violent crimes against businessmen in recent months. Extortion threats, robberies, and gun attacks on shopkeepers and small-scale entrepreneurs have become disturbingly common.

Earlier this year, another trader was shot in the Boring Road area in a similar fashion. While the government claims to be taking strict measures to enhance law and order, ground realities suggest otherwise.

Fear Among the Trader Community

Following Jha’s murder, several local shopkeepers and traders gathered outside Ramkrishna Nagar police station on Saturday morning demanding justice, swift action, and increased night patrols. The Trader Association of Patna has also called for a one-day symbolic shutdown in protest against the killing and to raise awareness about their vulnerability.

Speaking to KKN Live, a local shop owner said, “We are being hunted like animals. First extortion calls, and now they’re just killing us. If the police can’t protect us, who will?”

The Victim: Who Was Bikram Jha?

Bikram Jha, a respected member of the local business community, was known for running his mini-mart with dedication and honesty. He was in his late 30s and is survived by his wife and two young children. Family sources confirmed that he had not received any threats recently, although there were murmurs of some disputes within the local market circle.

His sudden death has left the community in mourning, with many remembering him as a quiet, hardworking individual who kept to himself and focused on his business.

Political Reaction and Demand for Accountability

The incident has triggered political reactions across the board. Opposition leaders in Bihar have criticized the Nitish Kumar-led administration for failing to control crime in the capital. Some are even demanding the resignation of top law enforcement officers, citing repeated incidents of unchecked violence.

The Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries has issued a statement condemning the killing and demanding concrete steps from the government, including:

• Installation of more CCTV cameras in commercial areas

• Faster police response times

• Creation of a dedicated helpline for traders in distress

• Immediate arrest of the culprits involved in Jha’s murder

Crime in Patna: A Growing Concern

With this latest incident, the spotlight once again shifts to the increasing crime rate in Patna. According to recent NCRB data, Bihar continues to be among the top states in terms of registered cases of violent crimes, with Patna accounting for a significant share.

The common sentiment among citizens is that without strong political will and police reforms, criminals will continue to operate fearlessly, eroding public trust in law enforcement.

The cold-blooded murder of Bikram Jha in Patna is not just a tragic loss for his family but a grim reminder of how unsafe urban Bihar has become for its small business owners. As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the Patna police and the state government to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done—before another innocent life is lost.