THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, March 2: Three days after an attempt on the life of Moulana Laal Mohammad Ansari, the case remains unsolved, with no significant breakthroughs.
Sources indicate that the survivor, Moulana Ansari, is not cooperating with the local police and is refraining from sharing details about the incident.
However, the Chainpur police remain confident that they will crack the case. Authorities have ruled out the possibility of the attack being staged—it was indeed a genuine attempt on his life, though the motive remains unclear.
The Incident
The 35-year-old Moulana survived a murder attempt on February 28, within the Chainpur police station limits.
According to police reports, the assailants attempted to shoot him but misfired. The attack occurred around 2:30 PM that afternoon.
Chainpur police station officer-in-charge, Sriram Sharma, told this correspondent, “Moulana Laal Mohammad Ansari was on his bike, returning from the Friday congregational prayer at Kudaga Khurd Chhoti Masjid, when two men on another bike overtook him. One of them fired at him with a country-made weapon, but the shot misfired.”
Sensing danger, the Moulana sped away and managed to escape unharmed. However, he was left shaken by the failed assassination attempt.
Police Investigation & Moulana’s Silence
Officer Sharma further stated, “The Moulana has submitted a written complaint requesting strict action against the culprits.”
However, the Moulana has not named anyone or expressed suspicion against any individual. When asked if he was withholding information, Sharma responded, “We believe he is hiding something. He remains tight-lipped.”
Police sources added, “It’s puzzling why anyone would target him unless there was a personal motive or conflict.” They confirmed that the attack was specifically aimed at Moulana Ansari and that he had narrowly escaped.
Possible Motives Behind the Attack
Sources suggest two possible angles behind the assassination attempt:
- Ramzan Charity Collection – The attack took place just two days before the start of Ramzan on March 2. During this time, Moulanas traditionally collect charity in cash from the faithful to fund madrasas, which operate without government aid.
Officer Sharma stated, “We will investigate whether the Moulana was involved in charity collection last Ramzan and if any financial rivalry could have led to the attack.”
However, preliminary findings show that the fundraising during the Friday prayer conducted by the Moulana amounted to only ₹765—an insignificant amount to suggest financial motives.
- Pre-Planned Attack – The attackers appeared to have done prior reconnaissance on the Moulana’s routine. They targeted him while he was riding alone on his bike from Chhoti Masjid to his home in Nayee Mohalla.
“We asked the Moulana if he had any other business, such as land dealings, but he denied any involvement,” added the officer.
Community Involvement & Next Steps
Sources suggest that land dealings are common among several Moulanas in Palamu district, and this angle cannot be ignored.
Police have instructed the Nayee Mohalla beat chowkidar to keep a watch on the Moulana’s movements. Additionally, authorities are seeking assistance from the Muslim community, particularly the Islahul Muslimin Committee, to uncover the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible.
