PATNA: Priest shot dead and his eyes were gouged out. The incident took place in Gopalganj, Bihar. The murder victim was identified as temple priest Manoj Kumar (32).

Manoj Kumar's dead body was recovered from the bushes yesterday evening. Police said there were injuries on his private parts as well. The official added that his genitals were cut off. Manoj has been missing since last Monday. He was last seen returning from the Shiva temple in Danapur at midnight.

Manoj Kumar's brother was a BJP worker. Locals protested after the priest's body was found. Locals alleged that police negligence was the cause of the priest's death. Protesters blocked the national highway and pelted stones at the police. Two policemen were injured in stone pelting. A police vehicle was also set on fire by the protesters.

Last Tuesday, the family filed a police complaint stating that Manoj Kumar was missing. The body was found in the subsequent search. A senior police officer said that the situation in the village is under control and more policemen have been deployed in the area. He stated that an investigation has been started in connection with the murder of Manoj Kumar and the accused will be arrested soon.