Two Brothers Shot Dead with 20 Bullets Outside Reception Party in Patna; 40-Year-Old Land Feud Suspected

Patna, February 23, 2026: In a chilling incident that has sent shockwaves across Bihar’s capital, two real brothers were gunned down in a hail of bullets outside a wedding reception in Shahpur village under the Gopalpur police station limits in Patna late Sunday night. The brutal double murder is suspected to be the fallout of a 40-year-old land dispute.

The victims, Manish Kumar (32) and Manjeet Kumar (24), sons of Rajkishore Rai, were shot multiple times by unidentified assailants who were allegedly lying in wait outside the reception venue.

Ambushed After Reception Dinner

According to police sources, the incident occurred around 9:15 pm when the two brothers attended a neighbor’s reception ceremony. Witnesses said that an argument reportedly broke out during the event. Shortly after the brothers stepped outside the venue, the attackers opened indiscriminate fire, pumping nearly 20 bullets into them.

Manish died on the spot, while Manjeet succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

The sudden burst of gunfire created panic among guests, with people scrambling for safety amid the chaos.

40-Year-Old Land Dispute Behind the Attack

Family members and local residents claim the murders stem from a six-acre land dispute that had been ongoing for four decades between extended family members (pattidars). About five months ago, a court verdict reportedly ruled in favor of the victims’ family, allegedly intensifying tensions.

The grieving family has directly accused individuals identified as Krishna, Prem, and their relatives of orchestrating the attack.

Allegations of Police Negligence

The victims’ father, Rajkishore Rai, alleged that he had anticipated a possible attack and had sought police protection earlier. He claimed to have submitted applications to the local police station and even to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), but no preventive measures were taken.

“If timely protection had been provided, my sons would still be alive,” he said.

Police Investigation Underway

City SP (East) Parichay Kumar stated that police received information about the shooting during a welcome ceremony being held in the area. He confirmed that both victims had died before reaching the hospital and said the exact motive would be established after a thorough investigation.

Following the incident, heavy police deployment has been made in Shahpur village to prevent further unrest. A forensic science laboratory (FSL) team has collected evidence from the crime scene, and video recordings from the reception are being examined to identify the attackers.

Police have launched raids to apprehend the accused, who are currently absconding.

The double murder has heightened concerns over law and order in the state, particularly as the crime unfolded in the midst of a celebratory gathering, turning a joyous occasion into a scene of tragedy.