Seven people were arrested for the murder of Soma Munda, tribal village head and former 2024 Assembly election candidate from Khunti, police said on January 14, 2026. Soma Munda was shot dead on January 7 while riding home with his wife on Namkum-Jamuadag Road. He held the title of 'Adel Sanga Padha Raja,' leading 22 villages. According to SP Manish Toppo, the murder followed a fight over 3.16 acres of land in Jiarappa village. A Ranchi resident, Devbrat Nath Shahdeo, attempted to sell this land, originally owned by landlord descendants, with local help. Munda and villagers opposed the sale since a traditional fair, Padha Jatra Mela, was held there for years. Last November, field leveling and stone marker removal sparked protests from Munda. Following this, a plot formed, culminating in his murder. Seven accused, including the main suspect, are in custody. Police continue to search for two shooters and other suspects involved.