14 bighas and a family feud: How ancestral land dispute erupted into gunfire in Patna, leaving 6 injured

PATNA: A long-standing dispute over 12-14 bighas of ancestral land triggered a violent clash between two groups of the same extended family in Hiranandpur village, under the Didarganj police station area in Patna, on Saturday afternoon. Six people were injured in the incident, while police detained eight people for questioning.The injured included Dwarka Prasad, the brother of Suresh Yadav, and his three sons, who belong to one group. From the opposing group, Ranjeet Yadav and his brother Arun Kumar also sustained injuries. All the injured were taken to NMCH, Patna, for treatment. The nature and severity of their injuries are yet to be confirmed.According to preliminary information, a tractor was being used to plough the disputed field when an argument broke out over ownership of the land. The disagreement soon escalated into a violent confrontation, with both groups accusing each other of assault and firing. One side alleged that Ranjeet took a rifle from his private security guard and opened fire. However, the opposing group accused Suresh and his family members of attacking them.Didarganj SHO Sunil Kumar said eight people had been detained in connection with the incident. "Both groups belong to the same extended family and have been involved in a dispute over 12-14 bighas of ancestral land for a long time. Both sides claim ownership of the property," he said.Fatuha SDPO Awadhesh Kumar said two firearms and 18 live rounds had been seized. The crime scene was secured and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) was called to collect evidence. Weapons reportedly carried by the security personnel of both groups, which are said to be licensed, were also being examined. Police received information about the incident around 3pm and reached the village by 3.15pm.Meanwhile, Suresh has a criminal history, with around seven to eight cases registered against him at Didarganj and Shastri Nagar police stations. These include cases related to attempted murder, violations of the Arms Act, robbery and snatching.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Patna | Silver Rate in Patna | Bank Holidays in Patna | Public Holidays in Patna | Patna AQI | Weather in Patna | Petrol Price in Patna | Diesel Price in Patna | CNG Price in Patna | LPG Price in PatnaStay updated with the latest Patna news. Download the TOI App.