Gopal Khemka Murder Case: Accused In BIhar Businessman's Murder Killed In Encounter

An accused in the murder of prominent Bihar businessman Gopal Khemka was killed in a police encounter in the Malsalami area in Patna on Tuesday.

The deceased, identified as Vikas, allegedly accompanied the main shooter, Umesh Yadav, during the murder of the Patna businessman, NDTV reported.

Gopal Khemka, a well-known businessman with interests in healthcare and petroleum, was shot dead late on July 4, right outside the gates of his residence in the high-security Gandhi Maidan area of Patna. The assailant, who was on a motorcycle, approached Khemka's car and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Khemka was the owner of Magadh Hospital and several petrol pumps.

The high-profile murder has sent shockwaves across the state and has put the Nitish Kumar-led JDU-BJP government in a difficult position, especially with the Assembly polls approaching. The opposition, including the RJD and the Congress, has seized upon the incident to criticize the government over the deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar.

Following a massive manhunt, the Special Task Force (STF) and Patna Police arrested the main shooter, Umesh Yadav, on Monday, July 7, 2025. During his interrogation, Yadav reportedly provided information that led the police to his accomplice, Vikas.

In the early hours of Tuesday, a police team tracked Vikas to the Malsalami area of Patna. According to police sources, an encounter ensued during which Vikas sustained gunshot injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

This case has revived memories of a similar tragedy that struck the Khemka family seven years ago when Gopal Khemka's son was murdered in Hajipur over a land dispute.

The recent killing has intensified the political debate over crime in the state, with opposition leaders accusing the government of failing to maintain law and order. Political activist Prashant Kishor also lambasted the current administration, comparing the situation to the "jungle raj" of the past.

However, the government has assured a speedy and thorough investigation into the murder.