In a shocking and gruesome incident that has sent shockwaves through Bihar's Gopalganj district, a priest identified as Manoj Kumar was found dead under horrific circumstances on Saturday, December 16. The discovery of his mutilated body near Manjha Milk Factory has left the community in deep shock and mourning.
Missing for Days:
Kumar had been missing for five days before his lifeless body was discovered. The priest, who served at a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Danapur village, was reportedly last seen leaving for the temple from his residence. Despite efforts to locate him, the police were unsuccessful until the grim discovery over the weekend.
Brutal Attack:
The extent of the brutality inflicted upon the victim is staggering. Kumar's eyes were gouged out, and his private parts were mutilated. Tragically, he had also been shot near the neck. The heinous nature of the crime has left the local community in disbelief and horror.
Family Connections and Political Fallout:
Adding another layer of complexity to the incident, the deceased priest's brother, Ashok Kumar Shah, holds a significant political position as the former divisional president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The family's ties to politics have elevated the tragedy to a broader context, sparking reactions and tensions in the region.
Violent Outburst and Clashes:
Following the revelation of the brutal crime, the area witnessed clashes between locals and the police. Allegations of negligence were hurled at the police, leading to a violent confrontation. Two police officials sustained minor injuries during the clashes, and a police vehicle was set ablaze. In response to the escalating situation, five individuals were detained by the police.
Political Fallout - BJP's Condemnation:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly responded to the incident, condemning the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar-led government. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawala likened the killing to an "ISIS-style" attack, criticizing the state government and asserting that "jungle-raj" has returned to Bihar.
Law and Order Measures:
Gopalganj Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Pranjal intervened to control the law and order situation in the village. The incident has highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of local law enforcement and ignited debates over the safety and security of the community.
As investigations unfold and tensions simmer, the brutal murder of Priest Manoj Kumar remains a stark reminder of the challenges facing the community, sparking both sorrow and outrage. The political dimension injected into the tragedy adds another layer of complexity, amplifying the need for a thorough and unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding this horrifying incident.
