BJP leader Anil Mahto, popularly known as “Tiger,” was shot dead in Ranchi on March 26, 2025, while preparing for Mahaveer Jayanti. The murder occurred near Kanke Chowk, barely 50 metres from a police station. Locals suspect land dealings may have allegedly motivated the attack.
One accused, Rohit Verma, was arrested after a police encounter, while the second attacker remains at large. The BJP and AJSU have called for a Ranchi bandh today, disrupting normal life and sparking political outrage. Former CM Babulal Marandi and other leaders have demanded Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s resignation over alleged law-and-order failures.
Broad Daylight Murder Sparks Protests
Anil Mahto was gunned down by two bike-borne assailants in broad daylight while making arrangements for Mahaveer Jayanti celebrations. Witnesses reported that the attackers approached Mahto at a roadside tea stall and allegedly shot him in the head before fleeing the scene, leaving bystanders in shock and panic. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), he was declared dead on arrival due to the severity of his injuries.
Rohit Verma, one of the suspects, was apprehended after locals chased him down; he sustained injuries during a police encounter that followed his capture and is currently receiving treatment under police custody. Authorities are investigating potential motives for the attack, with initial theories suggesting it may be linked to ongoing disputes over land dealings in the area.
Political Fallout and Shutdown
The shocking murder has led to widespread unrest in Ranchi, with significant disruptions caused by a nine-hour bandh called by BJP and AJSU Party supporters. The bandh has resulted in the closure of schools, businesses, and public transport across the city. Protesters took to the streets, blocking major roads and burning tyres at key intersections like Kanke Chowk and Booty More, demanding justice for Mahto and accountability from the state government. Several BJP leaders were detained by police during these demonstrations as tensions escalated.
In the Jharkhand Assembly, opposition leaders created a ruckus over the incident, leading to multiple adjournments as they demanded answers from Chief Minister Hemant Soren regarding safety measures in the state. Senior BJP figures, including Arjun Munda and Babulal Marandi, visited Mahto’s grieving family to offer condolences while harshly criticising Soren’s government for its alleged failure to maintain law and order. Marandi stated that public representatives are no longer safe under Soren’s administration and called for his resignation on moral grounds.
Community Reactions and Safety Concerns
Local residents have expressed their outrage over Mahto’s assassination, voicing fears about their safety amidst rising violence in Jharkhand. Many community members are calling for immediate action from authorities to enhance security measures that protect citizens from similar attacks in the future.
The sentiment among residents reflects a growing frustration with escalating crime rates and alleged inadequate responses from law enforcement agencies. Community leaders are urging both local and state governments to implement more robust safety protocols and engage with citizens to address their concerns effectively. Additionally, many residents are demanding a thorough investigation into Mahto’s murder to ensure that all responsible parties are brought to justice swiftly.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The tragic assassination of Anil Mahto underscores an alarming trend of violence that threatens the very fabric of our society. Such incidents not only endanger lives but also erode public trust in governance and safety measures meant to protect citizens. As we reflect on this event, it is crucial to foster dialogue around maintaining peace while ensuring justice for all involved.
The situation calls for a collective effort from community members, political leaders, and law enforcement agencies to address these pressing issues constructively. How can we work together as a society to advocate for safer environments while holding those in power accountable? We invite our readers to share their thoughts below!
