Have Thieves Targeted a Former Bihar Minister's Government Residence in Patna's VIP Area?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Security concerns: The incident raises alarms about safety in supposedly secure VIP areas.
- Recurring crime: The theft adds to a troubling trend of burglaries targeting political figures.
- Investigation underway: Authorities are actively investigating the case following the filing of an FIR.
- Community issues: Gautam's remarks highlight broader social issues related to crime and substance abuse.
- Political implications: The theft may affect public perception of political security in Bihar.
Patna, June 24 (NationPress) In a startling event that has sparked significant alarm regarding the law and order situation in Bihar's capital, thieves have struck at the government residence of Murari Prasad Gautam, a former Minister and current MLA representing the Chenari Assembly constituency. This residence is situated in one of the most secure VIP areas of Patna.
The burglary occurred at 12, Circular Road, falling under the jurisdiction of the Secretariat police station.
Among the stolen items were valuable possessions such as fans, coolers, mattresses, blankets, taps, and pillows, all taken despite the residence's heavy security.
The theft came to light when the MLA's personal assistant, Sujit Kumar Jha, arrived at the residence on the morning of June 22 and noticed that various belongings were missing.
He quickly lodged an FIR at the Secretariat police station, urging strict actions against the offenders.
The police have initiated an investigation into the case.
In the wake of the theft, Gautam has spoken out, suggesting that the local substance abusers and slum residents may be involved.
In an interview with IANS, Gautam stated: "On June 22, I was informed about the theft. Upon arrival, I discovered items like taps and a bed fan were missing. I have strong suspicions that a smoker of opium and marijuana is responsible for this incident."
Expressing concern over continuous thefts and the presence of what he termed as "anti-social elements" in the vicinity, Gautam remarked: "Certain individuals residing nearby are habitual offenders. We have previously called for action against them. However, political parties exert pressure in the name of slum dwellers, questioning where they would go. I firmly believe that the theft was executed by slum residents. If they are relocated from affluent areas, such incidents will cease."
This incident is not the first of its kind targeting a VIP residence in Patna.
In February 2025, a gold chain and cash were stolen from the government residence of Minister Neeraj Kumar Singh Bablu.
Additionally, in September 2023, the residence of Rashtriya Janata Dal MLA Lallan Yadav was burglarized twice within a span of 48 hours.
These repeated violations raise critical questions about the security measures in place for the state's elected representatives, not to mention the safety of the general populace.
Murari Prasad Gautam was elected on a Congress ticket during the 2020 Assembly elections and has also served as a Minister in the Grand Alliance government.
However, following a political shift in the state, Gautam has switched alliances and is now part of the National Democratic Alliance.