Journalist Shot in Siwan District, Bihar; Police Investigate Personal Rivalry
In a shocking incident late Thursday night, Ramesh Kumar Singh, a journalist associated with a vernacular daily, was shot by two unidentified assailants in the Pachrukhi police station area of Siwan district, Bihar. The attack has sent ripples through the local community and prompted a swift police response.
Details of the Attack
The assault occurred around 11:30 PM near the closed sugar mill at Bhawani Mor. Singh was returning to his home in Jasoli Kharag village on his motorcycle after attending a wedding in Siwan city earlier in the evening. He had stopped at his shop at Bhawani Mor to collect his bike before heading home. As he reached the vicinity of the sugar mill, two men on a motorcycle overtook him from behind and opened fire without warning.
A bullet struck Singh in the stomach, causing him to collapse on the road. Hearing the gunshots, local residents immediately rushed to the scene and transported him to Siwan Sadar Hospital for urgent medical attention. Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors provided first aid and then referred him to the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) for advanced treatment, where he remains under care.
Police Investigation and Statements
Siwan Superintendent of Police Puran Kumar Jha visited the crime spot and met with Singh at the sadar hospital to gather preliminary details. In initial remarks, SP Jha described the incident as appearing to be a case of personal rivalry at first glance, but emphasized that all angles are under serious investigation.
"A forensic team has been called to the spot to collect evidence, raids are underway based on Singh's statement, and a special team has been formed to arrest the perpetrators," SP Jha stated, underscoring the urgency of the probe.
Victim's Account and Suspicions
In his statement to police from the hospital, Singh reported that he could not identify the attackers due to the sudden and dark conditions of the assault. However, he expressed suspicion that the attack may be linked to a personal enmity stemming from a past threat.
Singh recalled that in 2022, while he was in jail related to a gang war case, a man from his village allegedly contracted someone to have him killed. At that time, the then in-charge of Pachrukhi police station informed the jail superintendent about the plot. Singh believes that the individual, who is now out of jail and living abroad, may have orchestrated this recent attack through his brother, who resides in the village and manages local affairs.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety for journalists in the region and the potential dangers posed by personal disputes escalating into violence. The police are continuing their investigation, with efforts focused on apprehending the culprits and uncovering the full motive behind the shooting.
