Patna: An attack on a senior industrialist on the outskirts of Patna on Sunday evening has renewed concerns over the security of entrepreneurs in Bihar, at a time when the state government is seeking to project itself as an attractive destination for investment.
According to police and eyewitness accounts, Ajay Kumar Singh, chairman and managing director of the Bharat Plus Group of Companies, was travelling towards his flour mill in Bihta when his vehicle was attacked by a large group of unidentified people.
The incident occurred at around 6.20pm in the Bihta police station area. Singh was accompanied by his personal security officer, driver and senior staff members. Due to a traffic jam on the route, the group decided to turn back towards Patna. Near the Vishambharpur Old Age Home, their vehicle was allegedly surrounded by more than 50 assailants armed with sticks and iron rods.
The attackers smashed the rear and side windows of the car and caused extensive damage to the vehicle, police said. The occupants narrowly escaped injury after the driver managed to reverse the car and leave the area amid the chaos.
Singh later filed a written complaint at Bihta police station, demanding the identification and arrest of those involved. “Such incidents create fear among businesspeople,” he said in his complaint, urging the authorities to take swift and strict action.
Police officials said an investigation had been launched and CCTV footage from nearby areas was being examined to identify the attackers. No arrests had been reported by late evening.
The incident has sparked political and business circles to question the law-and-order situation, particularly as the newly formed government led by Nitish Kumar has repeatedly highlighted industrial growth and investor confidence as key priorities.
Industry representatives said that ensuring the safety of entrepreneurs was crucial if Bihar’s ambitions of attracting private investment were to be realised. Meanwhile, police have assured that additional patrolling will be carried out in the area and that those responsible will be brought to justice.
