Gopal Khemka, known for his real estate and textile ventures, was murdered on May 22, 2024, in a case that stunned the business community and resulted in widespread public outcry. Following weeks of intensive investigation, police identified 32-year-old Sameer Malik as the mastermind behind the assassination.
“Malik was on the run and a high-priority target due to his suspected involvement in not just Khemka’s murder, but in several extortion rackets operating across the state,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police (North), Anirban Dutta, in a press statement Thursday.
The Encounter: How the Events Unfolded
Police claim that officers received a tip-off late Wednesday night on Malik’s whereabouts in a deserted warehouse near Barasat, north of Kolkata. According to official accounts, a special task force cornered Malik and his associate, who allegedly opened fire on the police team.
“In retaliation and to protect our personnel, police responded. Malik was hit during the exchange. Emergency services declared him dead at the scene,” DCP Dutta stated.
Sources within Kolkata Police revealed that one officer sustained a minor bullet injury but was treated and discharged from the hospital. Malik’s associate managed to escape, and a manhunt is currently underway.
Police Justify Actions, Cite Self-Defense
Addressing concerns about the encounter, Kolkata Police emphasized adherence to protocol. “This was not a planned killing. We followed due procedure. Unfortunately, when criminals use deadly force, we must respond,” said DCP Dutta, reiterating the extraordinary circumstances of the operation.
Eyewitness and Family Reactions
An eyewitness, Rajib Sen, a local shopkeeper, reported hearing multiple gunshots around 2 a.m. “I was woken up by gunfire and saw police vehicles rushing in. Within half an hour, the area was cordoned off,” he recounted.
Malik’s family members, however, have accused police of staging a ‘fake encounter’. “He may have made mistakes, but he deserved a fair trial,” said his elder sister Nisha Malik, demanding an independent probe.
Legal, Civil Society Raise Encounter Concerns
The encounter has drawn scrutiny from human rights groups and legal advocates. Kolkata High Court lawyer Prabir Sanyal commented: “Extrajudicial killings set a worrying precedent. Every accused, regardless of alleged crimes, has the right to due process.” Calls for a magisterial inquiry have grown louder, as per sources in the West Bengal Human Rights Commission.
Investigation Continues Amidst Public and Political Pressure
The West Bengal Police have assured the public that the investigation into Gopal Khemka’s killing remains ongoing. Multiple suspects, including alleged contract killers and intermediaries, remain at large.
State home department officials confirmed that Malik was considered a key link in unraveling the murder conspiracy, and his death, while a setback, will not derail the broader probe. “Our teams are pursuing other leads. We remain committed to delivering justice to Khemka’s family,” a senior official stated, requesting anonymity.
City on Edge as Debate over Police Powers Flares
The incident has polarized opinions in Kolkata, with some praising the police for their swift action and others voicing concerns over law enforcement overreach.
“Criminal elements must fear the law, but the law itself must remain above suspicion,” noted Dr. Rina Basu, a sociologist at Jadavpur University. “The public needs closure on the Khemka case, but not at the cost of legal norms.”
