Patna’s business community is reeling after the shocking murder of respected industrialist Gopal Khemka. The scene on Sunday was one of raw sorrow and simmering anger, as hundreds gathered for his final farewell.
Tearful Return from Scotland
Garima Poddar, Khemka’s daughter, flew in from Scotland the moment she got the call no one wants. Her cries of “Papa… Papa…” pierced the quiet crowd as she wept over her father’s body.
One line: It was a moment that brought many to tears — men and women alike stood stunned by the sheer brutality of it all.
Family, friends, and fellow industrialists carried Khemka’s body from his home to Gulbi Ghat, where the cremation took place around 4pm. His son, Gaurav Khemka, performed the last rites, surrounded by family and a shell-shocked business fraternity.
Business Leaders Demand Answers
The attack, which happened near Khemka’s own home on Friday night, has sparked outrage. Many at the funeral spoke openly about their fears — and fury.
One mourner said, “The women were crying, but the men’s silence held just as much pain — and fury. How can someone be shot dead near his home and the killer simply walks away?”
It’s a sentiment that’s echoing far beyond Khemka’s neighborhood. Bihar’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries leaders have been outspoken, demanding swift justice and better safety measures for business owners.
A Long List of Visitors
The Khemka residence in Kataruka saw a steady flow of mourners from early afternoon. The who’s who of Bihar’s political and industrial circles turned up to pay respects.
In attendance were:
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Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary
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Minister Nitin Naveen
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Former BIA President Ram Lal Khetan
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CAT National Vice President Kamal Nopani
Many of them made no effort to hide their frustration at the state of law and order.
One line: The message was clear — this wasn’t just a family’s loss, but a public failure to protect its own.
Community On Edge
Gopal Khemka wasn’t just another businessman. He was a symbol of old Patna’s industrial grit, someone who many say treated his workers and associates like family.
Now, that sense of security has been shattered. Traders, small business owners, and large industrialists alike are feeling rattled.
One small but telling fact: Shops in Khemka’s neighborhood pulled their shutters down voluntarily as a mark of respect. A gesture, but one that underlines how close-knit — and worried — this community really is.
Public Outrage Swells
This isn’t the first high-profile attack on a businessman in Bihar. But those gathered at Khemka’s funeral say they’re fed up with empty promises.
One line: Some fear this tragedy could push more business families to seek safer futures in other states — or overseas.
As Garima and her family performed the final rituals, many whispered that the tragedy might mark a turning point for Patna’s business climate.
What Happens Next?
Police say they’re on the hunt for suspects, but the details are still murky. For now, all eyes are on how swiftly the investigation moves — and whether this grief-fueled anger will force action.
One sentence: Khemka’s daughter will soon fly back to Scotland, but the echo of her cries — “Papa… Papa…” — will linger in the lanes of Patna for a long time.
