In a shocking incident before the Bihar Assembly elections, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Rajkumar Rai, alias Ala Rai, was killed in a shootout by unidentified criminals in Patna’s Munna Chak locality yesterday evening. Two unidentified persons on motorbike fired six bullets at Rai near Rajendra Nagar Terminal when he was ambushed, as per police reports, killing him instantly. Eyewitness testimony and CCTV evidence state that the murderers ambushed Rai while he was on his way home and stopped to pick up food from a nearby store moments before reaching his residence. Six shells were recovered from the crime scene by the police, and they have opened up the investigation for further action.
#WATCH | Patna, Bihar: RJD leader Rajkumar Rai shot dead in Patna
Patna East SP Parichay Kumar says, “A person was shot in lane number seventeen in front of Rajendra Nagar Terminal. His name is being told as Rajkumar alias Ala Rai. Accused seen in CCTV footage. There may be… pic.twitter.com/xwzlzVKjYn
— ANI (@ANI) September 11, 2025
Background and Profile of Rajkumar Rai
Rajkumar Rai was a senior leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal and a local of Raghopur in Vaishali district of Bihar. Rai was an active politician and had gained popularity in political as well as business circles, especially for his role in land-related transactions and property dealings. He was the likely candidate in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections from the Raghopur constituency. His active participation in party work and his influence within his area made him a well-known personality in Bihar’s politics.
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Though mostly remembered for his local influence, Rai was also seen as a grassroots leader who had touch with ordinary citizens and was engaged in solving problems at the regional level. However, some controversies surrounding land conflicts were attached to Rai, he was a central part of the RJD’s election plans for Bihar in the face of increased political competition.
Investigation and Reactions
The Superintendent of Police (patna East), Parichay Kumar has confirmed the murder details and established that investigations are looking into several angles, such as political rivalry and land issues. With elections being close, police officials are also investigating the angle of the murder being election agenda-driven. The immediate police response saw forensic officials taking evidence and scanning CCTV camera records to track down the attackers.
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Rai’s family members have demanded immediate arrest of those responsible and have warned of protests and roadblocks if justice is delayed. His sister, Sheela Devi, described the killing as a cold-blooded and planned murder and urged authorities to act quickly. Local and party leaders have condemned the killing, urging peace and an unbiased inquiry to prevent further escalation of violence in the region.
Political Implications
The murder of Rajkumar Rai has taken Bihar’s political landscape by shock, increasing tensions as the state is set to hold assembly polls. The murder points to the volatility and risks of political players in the state during intense competition. It also questions the balance of law and order, with demands for increased security for political leaders and activists to guarantee free and fair polls. While investigations are ongoing, the family and political supporters wait for law enforcement authorities to act in bringing the culprits to justice soon.
