Bihar Teacher Shivani Kumari Murder Case Takes New Turn: Principal and Colleague Under Suspicion

Araria, Bihar: The investigation into the shocking murder of 24-year-old BPSC teacher Shivani Kumari Verma has taken a new turn, with her family pointing fingers at her school principal and a fellow teacher. Shivani, originally from Haidergarh in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, was shot dead by two assailants on a motorcycle while commuting to school near Khabdah Kanhauli Shiv Mandir in Narpatganj police jurisdiction.

Family Raises Allegations
Shivani’s elder sister, Julie Kumari, claimed that a teacher at the school, Ranjit, had been harassing Shivani for over a year, pressuring her into marriage. Despite rejecting his advances, the harassment continued even after Ranjit got married three months ago. Julie suspects that Shivani’s refusal may have provoked Ranjit to orchestrate her murder.

The family also raised concerns about the school principal, Umesh Kushwaha. According to Julie, the principal often protected Ranjit whenever complaints were filed against him. Shivani had requested special leave for her studies, which the principal denied. When she escalated the matter to the District Education Officer (DEO), the principal was reprimanded. The family suspects that Shivani’s murder could be linked to revenge against her for challenging the principal.

Shivani: A Dedicated and Studious Teacher
Shivani, who had joined the school two years ago after being selected in BPSC TRE 1, was also preparing for UPSC exams. Known for her disciplined routine, she used to leave home on her scooter by 8:30 AM and return around 5 PM. Her landlord described her as diligent, spending her free time studying. Police recovered competitive exam magazines, notes, and books from her room, and have seized her mobile for further investigation.

The Attack
The assailants, riding a motorcycle, intercepted Shivani near the temple. They asked her to remove her helmet, and as she complied, they shot her multiple times—hitting her neck and temple—causing her immediate death on the spot. The culprits fled the scene.

Authorities continue to investigate all possible angles, including harassment, personal vendetta, and negligence by school authorities, as the case sends shockwaves across the region.