Patna lawyer shot dead in suspected professional rivalry case

Guddu Ansari, a practising lawyer, was fatally shot in Patna on Tuesday in an incident that police are investigating as a case of professional rivalry. The shooting occurred in a busy area of the city, with witnesses reporting multiple gunshots fired at the legal professional.

Residents immediately rushed Ansari to a nearby hospital following the attack. However, medical staff pronounced him dead on arrival, with injuries sustained in the shooting proving fatal. Preliminary investigations suggest the incident may be linked to ongoing disputes within legal circles, though authorities have not ruled out other motives.

The killing sparked protests from legal professionals and civil society groups in Patna, with demands for a swift and transparent investigation. Bar associations have called for enhanced security measures for lawyers practising in the state, citing concerns about their safety.

Bihar Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the shooting. Officers are examining CCTV footage from the area and conducting witness interviews to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The incident has renewed focus on violence affecting legal professionals across India and the need for adequate protective measures.