The veil has lifted on the shocking assassination of Soma Munda, the revered Padha Raja of Jharkhand’s Khunti district. Police disclosures paint a picture of betrayal, revenge, and ruthless land greed behind the January 7, 2026, killing that sent ripples through tribal communities.
Six individuals, led by shooter Marcus Sanga, are now behind bars. At just 20, Marcus’s backstory adds a layer of tragedy: a former pupil at Munda’s school, expelled in 2022, he channeled his resentment into murder for a 50,000-rupee contract. Land businessman Daniel Sanga masterminded the conspiracy, exploiting Marcus’s anger by supplying cash and a weapon.
Daniel’s animosity with Munda stemmed from a protracted battle over 14 decimals in Hutar Chowk, dating back 10-12 years. Munda consistently blocked construction efforts. The breaking point came in November-December 2025, when Munda and village elders halted a lucrative 32-acre transaction in Jierappa, frustrating land sharks.
Returning home on his bike with his wife, Munda was ambushed at Jamuadag pond by pre-positioned gunmen who fired relentlessly. Instant death followed the barrage.
A public spectacle unfolded as police marched the handcuffed suspects through Khunti’s main roads, with onlookers filming furiously. Recovered evidence comprises a desi pistol, ammo, vehicles used in the crime—including a Pulsar bike and car—plus phones and gear. SP Manish Toppo hailed the operation as a major success.
As a cornerstone of the Mundas’ Padha panchayat, Munda arbitrated vital community issues. His loss has plunged the area into grief and fury, spotlighting the perils faced by tribal custodians against land encroachers.