Guard Disputes Police Version in Gopal Khemka Murder, Alleges 3-Hour Delay

A guard at Gopal Khemka’s residence contradicted police claims, alleging a three-hour delay in response after the BJP leader was shot dead in Patna. While police say they arrived promptly, the guard insists the delay may have cost Khemka his life. The case has sparked political backlash in Bihar.

A major contradiction has emerged in the murder case of prominent Patna businessman and BJP leader Gopal Khemka, as his apartment building’s security guard has claimed that police arrived three hours after the shooting — contrary to official statements.

Khemka was gunned down near his residence in the Gandhi Maidan area of Patna late Friday night. Police officials initially asserted that patrolling officers reached the spot immediately after the incident. However, the guard, Ram Paras, recounted a different timeline. He told reporters that Khemka was shot around 11:30 PM, and the police did not arrive until 2:30 AM.

“I saw his car, and as I went to open the gate, I heard gunshots,” Paras said. “I rushed toward the vehicle and saw him bleeding, still alive. But the police came only after 2.30 AM.” His account has raised questions about the response time of law enforcement and sparked public concern over the handling of the case.

Senior police officials, including SP (Patna Central) Diksha, maintained that law enforcement personnel secured the crime scene promptly. They also stated that forensic teams were deployed and CCTV footage from the area is under review. A bullet and cartridge were recovered, and initial investigations point to a bike-borne assailant as the attacker.

Khemka’s murder has reignited political tensions in Bihar, with opposition parties slamming the state government for the deteriorating law and order situation. Adding to the family's tragedy, Khemka’s son was reportedly murdered six years ago in a separate criminal incident in Hajipur.

Also Read: UK’s F-35B Fighter Jet Still Grounded in Kerala, 40-Member Repair Crew Arriving from Britain

While investigations continue, the conflicting accounts between the guard and police have intensified scrutiny on Bihar's policing standards and emergency response mechanisms.