Former IPS officer and Ayodhya dispute figure Acharya Kishore Kunal dies at 74 in Patna

Acharya Kishore Kunal, a former IPS officer and key figure in the Ayodhya dispute, died of a heart attack in Patna on December 29, 2024. He was 74 years old and had a notable career in law enforcement and social work. Kunal served as the officer of special duty on the Ayodhya issue during the tenures of former Prime Ministers V.P. Singh and Chandra Shekhar. He was also the founder secretary of the Mahavir Mandir Trust and appointed many Dalit priests in significant temples. His contributions included overseeing the construction and renovation of numerous temples in Bihar. Kunal was recognized for his efforts in social and religious initiatives, and his death has prompted condolences from various political leaders, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.