In the serene town of Gopalganj in Bihar, a shocking crime has shattered the peace. The community was rocked by the discovery of a caretaker priest's mutilated body earlier this week, leading to widespread distress and fear. This horrifying incident is not just a simple case of crime; it's a complex narrative intertwining accusations, communal tensions, and a web of conflicting claims.

The rapid response of the police led to the arrest of three individuals, including the priest's former girlfriend. This arrest has raised more questions than answers, with many speculating about the possible motives and circumstances leading to the murder.

Amidst the unfolding drama, the arrested accused have made a grave accusation. They claim they were subjected to torture by the authorities, forced to confess to a crime they argue they did not commit. This allegation casts a shadow over the investigation, suggesting possible misconduct or forced confessions.

Adding another layer to the story, the deceased priest's brother has put forward a different angle. He alleges that the murder could be linked to a land dispute, specifically pointing to tensions with the Muslim community. This claim introduces a communal element to the case, potentially exacerbating the already delicate situation in the region.

Contrary to these assertions, the police have categorically denied all claims. They maintain that the media reports, which rely heavily on statements from the families of both the accused and the victim, are baseless. This firm rebuttal from the police adds to the confusion and complexity of the situation.

The local political scene is also heavily involved, with the BJP raising concerns about the investigation's direction. They suggest that the police might be skewing the case to portray it as a consequence of a failed love affair. BJP leaders have even visited the house of the female accused, orchestrating a conversation between her aunt and the in-charge Senior Police Officer (SP) Hriday Kant.

SP Kant, however, stands by his interpretation of the events. He asserts that the murder resulted from a love affair gone tragically wrong, offering a starkly different view from the communal dispute angle.

This is a Case of Love Affair and Blackmailing: Police

In the ongoing investigation of the brutal murder of a priest in Gopalganj, Bihar, the police bragged that they have made significant progress. They alleges that they have recovered several key pieces of evidence linked to the crime. These include the knife used in the murder, a piece of rope, and a cloth, which are believed to have played a part in the heinous act. Additionally, a broken mobile phone has been found, potentially offering crucial insights into the events leading up to the murder.

The police have set a narrative to present the case as a tangled web of love, betrayal, and blackmail. According to their findings, the main suspect, the ex-girlfriend of the priest named Manoj Sah, used her aunt's phone to lure him into a trap. In a shocking revelation, the police claim that Sah was held captive for four days, during which he was denied food and water, leading to a severe weakening of his physical state. This captivity culminated in a gruesome act of violence where Sah was brutally mutilated – his eyes gouged out, and his tongue and genitals severed in a barbaric display of cruelty.

Adding another layer to this complex case, the police have disclosed that the ex-girlfriend is a married woman. They suggest that she and the priest were involved in an illicit affair. According to the police, the priest had been threatening to release an obscene video of her, a revelation that sheds light on the possible motive behind the murder. This alleged threat of public humiliation and the exposure of their affair could have driven the accused to commit this extreme act.

In a contrasting narrative, the victim's family has pointed fingers at the Muslim community, naming them in connection with the murder. This accusation brings a communal angle to the case, suggesting deeper underlying tensions in the community.

Police Tortured the Entire Family: Girl’s Aunt

The Gopalganj priest murder case, already mired in controversy and complex accusations, has taken another disturbing turn. The plot thickens with the girl's aunt, who has spoken to 'Dainik Bhaskar', making some startling allegations. 

The aunt of the ex-girlfriend of the deceased priest has come forward with alarming allegations against the Bihar Police, painting a harrowing picture of the treatment meted out to her family during the investigation.

According to the aunt, the police's approach was far from just or humane. She claims that not only was the accused ex-girlfriend arrested, but the entire family was taken into custody. This broad sweep of arrests included her daughter and son-in-law, who were brought from their home in Kateya village. The conditions of their detention were harsh and inhumane, as the aunt alleges that they were denied basic necessities like a bed to sleep on or food to eat.

The ordeal didn't stop at mere detention. The aunt describes a scenario of intense intimidation and physical abuse. She claims that the family was threatened with death, a terrifying prospect that no doubt left them in a state of profound fear and distress. According to her, this wasn't an empty threat; the family members allegedly endured torture and were coerced into confessing to the murder of Manoj Sah.

One of the most shocking allegations made by the aunt involves the treatment of the ex-girlfriend herself. She claims that the young woman was beaten while in the police car, an act of violence that raises serious questions about the police's conduct during the investigation.

Adding a poignant note to these allegations, the aunt states that Manoj Sah, the victim, was considered like a son to their family. This revelation suggests a close relationship between the victim and the accused's family, contradicting the narrative of animosity or conflict that might typically be expected in such cases.

The case has also attracted the attention of political figures. Former BJP Tourism Minister Ram Pravesh Singh has openly criticized the police's handling of the case. He accuses the police administration of falsely implicating the wrong people, suggesting that the true culprits are still at large. Singh believes that the police are framing the murder as a love affair gone wrong, thereby diverting attention from the real motive and perpetrators. According to him, this is an attempt to hastily close the case without addressing the underlying issues.

During a press conference at the Circuit House in Gopalganj, a former minister raised significant questions regarding the police handling of Manoj Sah's murder. Addressing journalists, he stated, “Manoj Sah used to perform puja in the Shiv temple and also performed many yagyas. Some people nearby had objections about this. He was murdered by the same people. Manoj Sah went missing on 10th December and he was found dead on 15th December. What were the police doing for five days when the dead body was found? If the police had been active at that time, Manoj Sah would have been alive today.”

The former minister's statement sheds light on Sah's religious activities, suggesting these might have been a point of contention in the community. His emphasis on the timeline of Sah's disappearance and discovery raises questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of the police investigation during those critical days.

Furthering the discourse, the former minister shared a video featuring the statement of the ex-girlfriend's aunt. In a display of raw emotion, she, with folded hands and tears in her eyes, claimed, "Their wards gave a false statement under police pressure." She alleged that the police tortured the accused to extract a confession. Furthermore, she asserted the transparency of their household, saying, “Our house is such that a dead body cannot be hidden there, anyone can come and see it for themselves.” This claim challenges the narrative of the police and suggests that the family's involvement in the crime might be a false accusation.

In another critical observation, BJP MLC Rajeev Singh, known as Gappu Singh, pointed out a discrepancy in the police's actions. He stated that despite the deceased's brother, Ashok Sah, naming specific individuals in his complaint at the Manjha Police station, the police did not arrest any of them. Instead, they arrested the victim's family, alleging a murder motivated by a love affair. This action by the police contrasts with the complaint's details and raises questions about the direction and motives of the investigation.

Further Allegations Emerge in Gopalganj Priest Murder: Zonal Officials and Land Dispute Accusations

In the ongoing investigation into the murder of Manoj Sah in Gopalganj, a former minister has made a striking statement implicating zonal officials in the case. He asserted, “The zonal officials of Manjha are as guilty as the police.” This accusation suggests a deeper level of complicity or negligence, extending beyond the local police force.

The former minister also delved into the history of the land where the temple stands, which is central to the case. He revealed, “The Rajput community had donated a piece of land to the temple but people from the Muslim community encroached on it and the same people have committed the murder.” This claim introduces a communal angle to the case, indicating a potential motive rooted in a long-standing land dispute.

In a report by ‘Prabhat Khabar’, further details emerged about the mysterious circumstances surrounding Manoj Sah’s body. The report noted the uncertainty about who dumped Sah’s body near Idgah, a location that adds another layer of complexity to the case.

The police have taken significant steps in their investigation. Neha Kumari, Sunita Devi, and Amit Kumar, three individuals connected to the case, have been arrested and sent to jail. However, the investigation is far from over. The police are actively searching for Neha’s husband, Subhash Sah, and her cousin, Sandeep Kumar, indicating that more people might be involved in this convoluted case.

The local BJP faction has raised concerns about the impartiality of the investigation. They allege that the police station officer, who has been accused of misconduct, has been appointed as the Investigating Officer (IO) in the case. This appointment has raised eyebrows and questions about the fairness and objectivity of the investigation.

News published in Gopalganj edition of ‘Prabhat Khabar’

Adding to the political dimension of the case, there are murmurs that the Leader of Opposition, Vijay Sinha, might take an active stance against these developments. It is rumored that he may even stage a protest, signaling a significant escalation of the political involvement in the case.

OpIndia's conversation with Ashok Sah, the deceased priest's brother and former village head, sheds light on the personal and historical aspects of the case. Ashok Sah revealed, “His brother was 26 years old, and he used to do aarti and offer bhog in the temple in the morning and evening.” This information highlights the deceased's deep connection to the temple and his role in the daily rituals, underscoring his importance in the local religious community.

Ashok Sah, who became the village head of Jagannatha Panchayat in 2016, also delved into the history of the temple. He stated, “The temple is 400 years old, where Swayambhu Mahadev had appeared.” This detail points to the temple's long-standing significance in the region. He further mentioned a large-scale yagya held in 2023, noting its grandeur and the participation of the local MLA and people from 20 panchayats.

The brother of the deceased then touched upon a contentious issue involving the temple. He said, “Muslims had problems with the temple, and Shahabuddin’s henchmen captured the land.” This statement introduces a communal conflict element to the case, implying that the murder might have deeper roots in religious and land disputes.

Explaining the community's devotion to the temple, he told OpIndia, “People of the entire district have faith in this temple.” The widespread reverence for the temple underscores its significance. He recounted the enthusiasm of the devotees during the Yagya in May 2023, where there was a collective desire to build a Parvati temple alongside the Shiva temple. Following this, the local Rajput community donated 6 acres out of 10 acres of their land for the temple's expansion.

However, the narrative took a dark turn when he alleged, “As soon as the paddy was harvested, the henchman of former RJD MP from Siwan and gangster Shahabuddin, W Khan along with his associates took illegal possession of the entire 10 acres of land.” This accusation of land grabbing by Shahabuddin's associates suggests a possible motive for the conflict and, by extension, the murder.

In a detailed explanation, the deceased priest's brother, Ashok Sah, provided more context to the land dispute and the communal tensions in the village. He stated, “Muslim people are settled around there and the mosque is also nearby. There are a large number of Muslims in the village. W Khan is from Siwan and has connections in Danapur. He is a goon.” This description sets the stage for the complex inter-communal dynamics at play. Ashok Sah's characterization of W Khan as a 'goon' with wide-reaching connections suggests a figure of considerable influence and potential intimidation.

Ashok Sah delved into the historical aspects of the land dispute, mentioning, “100 years ago, there was a Khatian in the Names of Muslims but during British rule, this land had come to the Babu people (Rajput community).” This historical shift in land ownership seems to be a significant factor in the current conflict. He recounted his efforts alongside MLA Rampravesh Singh to address this issue with the SDO, leading to a reprimand of the CO for a correct report. Despite having all the necessary papers, Ashok Sah claimed that the Muslim community began to threaten them due to the land dispute.

He further accused the Muslim community of direct threats against him and his brother. “They were hurling abuses and threatening to kill us,” he said. This claim of threats paints a picture of an environment filled with hostility and fear.

The night of the kidnapping is vividly described by Ashok Sah. He said his brother “had brought the puja items at night and they had to wash the temple early in the morning.” The routine task turned tragic when, “as soon as he came out after locking the door at night, the goons kidnapped him.” This account suggests that the kidnapping was planned and executed with precise timing.

In a significant allegation, Ashok Sah mentioned Bihar Chief Secretary Aamir Subhani and implied a connection with the police station in-charge Shahid Akhtar, claiming, “He is from his village.” He expressed a belief that his family was being targeted, noting that “the girl’s brother used to work at the temple.” This claim suggests a potential motive for the murder rooted in personal and professional relationships.

Ashok Sah also challenged the police narrative regarding the phone call that allegedly lured his brother. He asserted, “The girl’s brother had made a phone call to his deceased brother which the police are claiming to be a phone call made by the girl to the deceased from her aunt’s phone.” This contradiction raises questions about the investigation's direction and the evidence being used.

He concluded with a grave accusation about the treatment of his family, alleging, “18 members of the family were tortured.” 

DIG Addresses Controversies in Gopalganj Priest Murder Case

DIG (Range) Vikas Sharma, in a recent press conference, presented the official police perspective on the complex and controversial Gopalganj priest murder case. He stated, “Manoj Kumar Sah had an illicit relationship with a village girl and a love affair was going on. The girl was married somewhere else and after this Manoj was blackmailing her. He threatened her to make her photo video viral and give it to her husband.”

However, this version of events has been met with skepticism and criticism from various quarters, including the victim's family and local political figures, who have suggested alternative motives and accused the police of misdirecting the investigation.

Sharma further explained the police's theory, saying, “In retaliation, the girl, with the help of her brother and some other acquaintances, took him hostage and then murdered him.” However, these allegations have not been universally accepted, with counterclaims suggesting different scenarios and motives.

The DIG also referred to evidence that the police have gathered. “The video of Manoj Sah leaving the temple at 10 pm on 10th December is in the CCTV footage,” he said, implying that this supports the police's timeline of events. Sharma pointed out the proximity of the houses of Sah and the girl, which might have facilitated their alleged affair.

Clarifying Sah's role in the local temple, Sharma stated, “Manoj Kumar Sah was not the priest but the caretaker of the temple.” He added that Sah's involvement with the temple increased following the girl's marriage. 

Addressing the controversies surrounding the investigation, Sharma claimed, “Some people have tried to divert the police investigation by spreading false rumors and all the claims have been found to be baseless.” Lastly, Sharma acknowledged the work of the investigative team, stating, “The team formed by the Superintendent of Police has investigated the case,” and mentioning that “those policemen will also be rewarded.” While this shows the DIG's approval of the investigation, it does not quell the public and political criticism of the police handling of the case.

In his continued address regarding the Gopalganj priest murder case, DIG (Range) Vikas Sharma emphasized the role of forensic analysis in the investigation. He stated, “The forensic team will also investigate, all the facts will be presented in the court and action will be taken.” 

The DIG also highlighted the role of technology in identifying the accused. He mentioned, “The accused had been identified through CCTV,” reinforcing the police's stance that the murder was the result of a love affair and blackmailing. But this narrative has been met with skepticism and counterclaims from various community members and political figures, reflecting the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the case.

Amidst these developments, a Bajrang Dal activist from Gopalganj, Ranjit, spoke to Opindia about the case. He announced, “Tomorrow all Hindu outfits will demand a fair investigation in this matter and it will be a joint call of all outfits including local BJP leaders.” This statement signals a significant mobilization within the community, reflecting widespread concerns about the investigation's fairness and transparency. 

Ranjit further shared insights into the victim's family's experiences, stating, “The victim’s family had been getting threats from local Muslim people for a long time. Many times, they complained to the local administration but authorities ignored them.”

As the case unfolds, the community remains divided, with various narratives competing for credibility. The police continue to assert their version of events, focusing on forensic evidence and CCTV footage, while community activists and political figures call for a broader and more inclusive investigation, highlighting alleged threats and grievances that they claim have been overlooked.

The Horrific Murder of Caretaker Priest in Danapur Village

The small village of Danapur, under the jurisdiction of the Manjhagarh police station, has been the scene of a chilling and brutal crime that has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. The victim of this grisly act was Manoj Kumar Sah, the caretaker priest (Pujari) of a Shiv Temple in the area. Sah had been missing for five days, causing great concern among his family and the local residents.

The culmination of this distressing period came with a horrific discovery made on Saturday, 16th December. Sah's mutilated body was found in the bushes near a dairy shop, a location that has now become a grim landmark in the village. The state of the body was appalling and indicative of extreme violence: his eyes had been gouged out, and his tongue and genitals were chopped off. This level of mutilation suggests that the murder was not just an act of killing but also a statement of brutality and terror.

The nature of the injuries inflicted on Sah has added a layer of horror to the already tragic event. The specific targeting of his eyes, tongue, and genitals indicates a possible intent to punish or send a message, going beyond the mere act of killing. Such barbarity has not only taken a life but also left a scar on the collective psyche of the Danapur community.

This gruesome murder has become the center of a complex investigation involving various allegations, counter-claims, and communal tensions. The shocking nature of the crime has raised numerous questions about the motive, the identity of the perpetrators, and the circumstances leading up to this tragic incident.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the loss of Manoj Kumar Sah and the terrifying manner of his death. The case has become a focal point of local and regional attention, with various groups and individuals calling for justice and a fair investigation into this heinous crime.