Former IPS officer and Mahavir Mandir secretary Kishore Kunal dies at 74
Key Points:
- Kishore Kunal suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday morning.
- He was the secretary of the Mahavir Mandir Trust in Patna.
- His last rites will be held on Monday at Hajipur’s Konhara Ghat.
JAMSHEDPUR – Former IPS officer Kishore Kunal passed away Sunday morning due to cardiac arrest, leaving behind a legacy of service and philanthropy.
Acharya Kishore Kunal, a respected former IPS officer and secretary of the Mahavir Mandir Trust, died after suffering cardiac arrest early Sunday. He was rushed to Mahavir Vatsalya Hospital in Patna, where he breathed his last. His demise has left the state in mourning, with prominent political leaders expressing their condolences.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 10, 1950, in a Bhumihar Brahmin family in Tirhut, Kishore Kunal pursued his early education in Baruraj village, Muzaffarpur district. He later graduated in history and Sanskrit from Patna University in 1970. Under the guidance of eminent historians like R.S. Sharma and D.N. Jha, he earned his master’s degree in 1983.
Career in the Indian Police Service
Joining the IPS in 1972, Kunal served in Gujarat Cadre. His tenure included notable roles, such as Superintendent of Police in Anand and Deputy Commissioner in Ahmedabad. In 1983, he was appointed as the Senior Superintendent of Police in Patna. He voluntarily retired from the IPS in 2001 to focus on social service.
Contribution to Mahavir Mandir
As the secretary of Mahavir Mandir Trust, Kunal oversaw the restoration of the temple beginning October 30, 1983. The renovated temple was inaugurated on March 4, 1985. Under his leadership, the trust established Mahavir Cancer Institute, Mahavir Netralaya, and several hospitals, providing essential services to the underprivileged.
A Legacy of Service
Kunal’s initiatives extended to founding Gyan Niketan School in Patna and improving healthcare for the poor through Mahavir Arogya Sansthan. His dedication to public service has been widely lauded.
Tributes and Last Rites
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, before departing for Delhi, expressed deep sorrow over Kunal’s demise. Several ministers, MLAs, and relatives visited his residence to pay their respects. His son-in-law Ashok Chaudhary was seen overcome with grief at the hospital. The final rites will take place on Monday at Konhara Ghat in Hajipur.
