Bihar news: JD(U) leader Saurabh Kumar shot dead in Patna

In the firing that ensued late at night, another person accompanying Saurabh Kumar, identified as Munmun, was hit thrice and sustained injuries. The JD (U) leader was reportedly shot twice in his head by four men on bikes. Both the victims were rushed to a hospital where doctors declared Saurabh Kumar dead on arrival, while Munmun was admitted in a serious condition.

Over the incident, JDU leader Abhishek Jha said, "This was an extremely unfortunate, condemnable and sad incident. Our condolences to the bereaved family." He added, "A police team has been deployed at his house and an investigation is going on."

Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024 phase 2 voting on April 26: Key candidates, full list of all constituencies going to polls

"A special team of Patna Police reached the spot later at night and began investigation. Angry locals had even blocked a road in protest over the murder," reported NDTV.

Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter, Misa Bharti, arrived in Punpun on hearing the news to meet the victim's family members. Saurabh Kumar was a youth leader from Nitish Kumar's party.

Also read: Lok Sabha Elections Phase 2: Campaigns wrap up for 88 seats scheduled to vote on April 26

The incident happened late in the day after campaigning concluded in the state for the five Lok Sabha seats ahead of the second phase of polling on April 26. At least 50 candidates are in the fray in the state, and their fate will be determined in the second phase.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on behalf of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), addressed a rally in Purnea as JD(U) has fielded Chief Minister Nitish Kumar from the seat.

In Bihar's Bhagalpur, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed his first election meeting, a seat which the party's MLA Ajeet Sharma is contesting against JD(U) MP Ajay Mandal. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge addressed rallies in Kishanganj and at Katihar.

Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 Highlights: Congress announces 7 more candidates for upcoming polls

The Congress party will contest nine of Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats, three of which are going to polls in the second phase of the Lok Sabha polls. CM Nitish Kumar, national president of JD (U), conducted an intensive campaign in all five Lok Sabha constituencies. In Katihar, the CM shared the stage with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

(More details awaited)

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Published: 25 Apr 2024, 07:24 AM IST