In a major security lapse in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, criminals shot dead Hari Shankar Singh, a close associate of former minister and BJP leader Ram Surat Rai. The incident took place on the evening of March 24, 2026, in the Muradpur Bharat village under the Garha police station area. Singh, who worked as a farmer and property dealer, was killed just 100 meters away from his residence while returning home with his son on a motorcycle.
How did the attack take place?
The victim, also known as Hari Bhagat, was returning from his fields after finishing wheat threshing work. He was on a bike with his son when bike-borne criminals overtook them near Bujhawan Bhagat School. The attackers fired multiple rounds targeting his head and stomach. While Singh died on the spot, his son managed to save his life by running into the nearby fields. The local police reached the site and recovered two empty cartridges from the crime scene.
What does the initial police investigation reveal?
- Main Suspect: City SP Mohibullah Ansari confirmed that one suspect has been arrested and raids are ongoing to catch the remaining criminals.
- Motive: Early investigation points towards a land dispute and an old rivalry as the primary reasons behind the murder.
- Past Incidents: The victim was previously attacked about six to eight months ago, for which he had filed an FIR against three individuals.
- Official Action: Forensic Science Laboratory teams were called to the scene, and the body was moved to SKMCH for post-mortem.
Former Minister Ram Surat Rai visited SKMCH and expressed his grief, describing the victim as a member of his own family. He criticized the local administration for the deteriorating law and order situation and the alleged negligence of the police. SDPO Vinita Sinha stated that all angles, including a recent dispute over farming activities, are being thoroughly examined by the investigation team.
