In a chilling incident, a Bihar priest, Manoj Kumar, missing for six days, was found dead with gunshot wounds, mutilated eyes, and severed genitals in Gopalganj district. The discovery led to clashes between locals and the police, resulting in minor injuries to two officers, according to media reports.
Kumar, associated with a Shiva temple in Danapur village, disappeared on his way to the temple, prompting a police investigation that initially yielded no results. The police later discovered his lifeless body in village bushes, sparking accusations of police negligence from outraged locals.
As tensions escalated, clashes erupted, with locals hurling stones at police and setting ablaze a parked police vehicle on the highway. Police responded by firing warning shots into the air to restore order. Gopalganj Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Pranjal intervened to calm the agitated crowd.
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The victim's brother, Ashok Kumar Shah, a former BJP divisional president, adds a political dimension to the tragedy. Suresh Shah, another brother, expressed shock over the incident, revealing the family's assumption that Kumar would return soon.
Pranjal assured that the situation was under control, with additional police deployed. He confirmed plans to register an FIR in the case, vowing further action.
The incident has triggered a political response, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticizing Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's government, alleging a resurgence of "jungle-raj" in the state.
