Mohammad Javed Iqbal alias Mohammad Guddu (50), husband of former मुखिया (village head) Umme Kulshum of Harewa Panchayat in Salakhua block of Saharsa district, was shot dead by unknown assailants. The incident occurred near Sarbela Bridge in Banma Itahari while Iqbal was returning home from Sarbela. Two बाइक-borne criminals opened fire on him and fled the scene, brandishing their weapons.

Iqbal collapsed on the spot after being shot. Local residents, hearing the gunshots, rushed him to the hospital. After initial treatment, he was referred to Saharsa due to his critical condition, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. The news of his death has plunged his family into mourning and created an atmosphere of fear in the entire area.

Simri Bakhtiyarpur SDPO Nishikant Bharti confirmed the incident. He stated that the motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained, but the police are investigating the case, considering the possibility of old animosity. Police raids are underway to apprehend the culprits.

The murder has led to an atmosphere of grief in Harewa Panchayat, Salakhua, and Banma Itahari blocks. Supporters of Mohammad Javed Iqbal have demanded the immediate arrest of the criminals. Police forces have been deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incidents.