Patna is reeling from the shocking murder of Gopal Khemka, a well-known businessman and owner of Magadh Hospital. The incident happened late Friday night, July 4, 2025, near his home in the Gandhi Maidan area. This tragic event has sparked outrage and raised questions about safety in Bihar’s capital. We’re following the story closely and will keep you updated as new details emerge.
Who Was Gopal Khemka?
Gopal Khemka was a big name in Patna’s business world. Starting with a single medical shop, Aushadhi Medico, he built an empire that included Magadh Hospital, one of the city’s top private hospitals, as well as real estate ventures and petrol pumps. He was also a director at Bankipore Club and had ties to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), though he stepped back from politics after his son, Gunjan Khemka, was murdered in 2018. That killing, eerily similar to this one, happened in the Vaishali district, where Gunjan was shot by bike-borne attackers. Gopal’s younger son, Gaurav, is a doctor at IGIMS in Patna, and his daughter lives in London. Known for his hard work and success, Gopal was a respected figure, making his death all the more shocking to the community.
Details of the Incident
The attack took place around 11:40 PM on July 4, near Ramgulam Chowk, close to the Twin Tower apartments and Panache Hotel. Gopal was stepping out of his car when unidentified assailants on a bike opened fire, shooting him in the head. He was rushed to Mediversal Hospital but was declared dead on arrival. Police found a bullet and a cartridge at the scene and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the killers. The Gandhi Maidan police station, just 500 meters away, has drawn criticism for taking over an hour to respond, according to Khemka’s family. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by City SP (Central) Diksha Kumari, has been formed to probe the case, with Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar overseeing the investigation.
Public and Political Reactions
The murder has caused a wave of anger in Bihar, with many calling it a sign of “Gundaraj” (criminal rule). RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari slammed the government, pointing out the crime happened right under the police’s nose. Congress leader Prem Chandra Mishra echoed this, questioning the state’s law and order. JDU leader Shyam Rajak, who knew Khemka for 45 years, called the incident surprising, saying Khemka didn’t seem to have enemies. Purnea MP Pappu Yadav took to X, expressing outrage and linking the murder to rising crime in Patna. Meanwhile, some BJP leaders, like MLAs Nitin Navin and Arun Kumar Sinha, attended Khemka’s funeral, but his uncle, Ram Khemka, noted the absence of senior leaders, adding to the family’s frustration.
Ongoing Investigation and What’s Next
The police are working hard to crack the case. The SIT is combing through evidence, including two spent cartridges recovered from the scene. Authorities are exploring all angles, from personal rivalries to business disputes, though no motive has been confirmed yet. The similarities to Gunjan Khemka’s 2018 murder, which remains unsolved, have raised questions about whether the two cases are connected. Public pressure is mounting for quick action, with many in Patna demanding answers. As the investigation unfolds, we’ll keep you posted on any arrests, new leads, or statements from officials. For now, the city mourns a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a pillar of the community, while grappling with fears about safety in its streets.
